The Orange Tree Theatre in Richmond in London has announced that Ian McKellen will return to the stage for a rare and intimate show celebrating his extraordinary life in theatre.
The special event, Ian McKellen – Stories, Stage & Shakespeare, will be staged at Richmond Theatre for three performances only on 10 and 11 January 2026.
The new show promises to be a mix of conversation and performance, and created to raise funds for the Orange Tree Theatre in Richmond.
Video: Ian McKellen talks about his new show
All proceeds will help continue the wide-ranging work of the Orange Tree both on and off stage, from productions and community and education programmes.
Ian McKellen said in a statement: “The Orange Tree is a wonderfully small, intimate theatre where exciting productions happen. They’re renovating the front of house to get rid of all those dreadful stairs. So, I wanted to help fundraise for not only that, but their productions and work outside of the theatre with schools.”
Orange Tree Artistic Director Tom Littler said: “We’re thrilled and deeply touched that Ian has chosen to create this event in support of the Orange Tree. His generosity – and the generosity of Richmond Theatre in hosting us – arrives at a transformative moment for us, as we reimagine our building and expand the work we can do on and off stage. It’s a celebration of what makes our theatre unique, and a tremendous boost to our future.”
On Sunday 11 January, a small number of VIP tickets are available, guests will join an intimate VIP reception at Scott’s Richmond with Sir Ian McKellen after the performance.
Book tickets to see Ian McKellen at Richmond Theatre in London
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