R. C. (Richard Claude) Carton

Born Richard Claude Critchett in London on May 10, 1853, he first trained as an architect before choosing the stage instead. He began acting in Bristol in 1875 and soon appeared in London, where he built a career in the theater under the name R. C. Carton.

Carton is best remembered as a playwright of polished stage comedies. His better-known works include Liberty Hall, The Home Secretary, Lord and Lady Algy, and Lady Huntworth's Experiment, plays that helped keep his name in circulation well after their original productions. Some of his work was later adapted for film, showing how well his theatrical storytelling traveled beyond the stage.

He was married to the actress Katherine Compton, who appeared in his theatrical world and in productions connected with his plays. Carton died in London on April 1, 1928, leaving behind a body of work closely tied to the wit and charm of British theater at the turn of the century.