David Hunter – from Warrington to the West End
Early Days and Superstar Beginnings
David Hunter grew up in Warrington, Cheshire and later trained at the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA) (the same school founded by Sir Paul McCartney).
After graduating, he began his career performing in regional theatre and touring productions, building a name for himself.
But it was ITV’s 2012 talent show ‘Superstar’ that first introduced him to a national audience.
The show searched for the next “Jesus” for an arena production of Jesus Christ Superstar and David’s soulful performances earned him a place in the semi-finals.
Breaking Through in One Man, Two Guvnors
David’s early professional highlight came as part of the original cast of Richard Bean’s One Man, Two Guvnors at the National Theatre. The play, led by James Corden, became a global success, transferring to the West End and Broadway.
Being part of that original company gave David a front-row seat to some of the most electric comedy and live performance energy London had seen in years.
This early credit proved he could hold his own among the best and it set the stage for bigger roles to come.
Finding His Voice in Once
In 2014, David took over the lead role of “Guy” in the West End production of Once at the Phoenix Theatre. The show (based on the Oscar-winning film) required actors to play their own instruments on stage and David’s musicality shone through.
Audiences and critics alike praised his performance, describing it as heartfelt, grounded and genuinely moving. It was the first time many theatregoers really discovered him and it made clear that David Hunter wasn’t just a talented singer; he was a compelling storyteller.
Kinky Boots and Leading Man Status
Two years later, in 2016, David stepped into the iconic role of Charlie Price in Kinky Boots at the Adelphi Theatre, replacing original star Killian Donnelly.
The Tony and Olivier Award winning musical (with music by Cyndi Lauper) celebrates individuality and self-expression, themes that David embraced wholeheartedly.
As Charlie, he balanced humour and heart, delivering powerhouse vocals in songs like Soul of a Man and Step One. This show helped establish him as a bona fide West End leading man.
A Sweet Success: Waitress
When Waitress arrived in London in 2019, it brought a fresh wave of musical joy and David was right at the centre of it, starring opposite Katharine McPhee and later Lucie Jones as Dr Pomatter.
The show’s relatable humour, emotional storytelling and Sara Bareilles’ irresistible songs made it a huge fan favourite.
David’s portrayal of the charming but conflicted doctor won praise for its warmth and sincerity and cemented his friendship with Lucie Jones.
Creativity Beyond the Stage
Like many performers, David’s creativity didn’t stop when the pandemic closed theatres. In 2020, he collaborated with fellow performer Caroline Kay to create The Space Between (an entirely original short musical written, recorded and released during lockdown).
The project was praised for its authenticity and emotional depth, proving that even without a stage, David could still connect powerfully with audiences. It also raised funds for the Theatre Artists Fund, supporting performers out of work during the pandemic.
David has released two EPs of original music, Silver Linings (2018) and Play (2021).
Recent and Upcoming Work
In 2023, he starred as Henry in The Time Traveller’s Wife: The Musical, first at Chester’s Storyhouse Theatre and then in London’s West End. The show, based on the beloved novel, showcased his ability to handle complex emotional roles.
In 2025 he appeared as Matt Flamhaff in 13 Going on 30: The Musical, at Manchester Opera House, opposite Waitress co-star Lucie Jones.
Next up, David joins the UK premiere of Beautiful Little Fool at the Southwark Playhouse Borough, playing F. Scott Fitzgerald in this new jazz-age musical 15 January – 28 February 2026.
David Hunter’s Theatre Credits
2011 One Man, Two Guvnors (Ensemble) National Theatre
2012 Seussical (Horton) Arts Theatre
2012 The Mayor of Zalamea (The Mayor) Liverpool Everyman
2013 The Hired Man (Isaac) Leicester Curve
2014–15 Once (Guy) Phoenix Theatre
2015-16 The Who’s Tommy (Captain Walker) Prince Edward Theatre
2016–17 Kinky Boots (Charlie Price) Adelphi Theatre
2019–20 Waitress (Doctor Pomatter) Adelphi Theatre (and 2022 UK Tour)
2022 The Time Traveller’s Wife (Henry) Storyhouse, Chester (and 2022–2023 Apollo Theatre
2025 13 Going on 30 (Matt Flamhaff) Manchester Opera House
