» Star of stage and screen Sir Ian Mckellen launches funding for youngsters
ONE of the greatest actors of stage and screen Sir Ian Mckellen, performed two very special one-man shows at the Everyman Theatre.
The shows – which sold out instantly – were part of a unique 80th birthday celebration with ticket sales going directly to support young people in the arts in Gloucestershire.
The actor, best known for his roles as Magneto in the X-men films, and Gandalf in The Lord of the Rings as well as numerous theatre roles, said: “Live theatre has always been thrilling to me, as an actor and in the audience.
“I’m glad to be making my debut at the renowned Everyman in support of the Education and Community Outreach Department.”
After the show, Sir Ian met with members of the theatre’s education and community team and other arts workers who have announced that more than £40,000 will have been raised over the two nights which forms The Sir Ian Mckellen Bursaries.
Everyman chief executive Mark Goucher said: “The bursaries are for young people in Cheltenham and across the county, to enable them to access our youth theatre groups, workshops, musical theatre summer school
and join our choirs.
“As well as helping young people access the Everyman, we are opening it up to other youth projects to get in touch to share it with us.
“As drama and creative learning is being taken out of our schools it is our responsibility to fill that gap.”
Anyone interested in applying for a bursary or finding out more can contact the Education and Community Department via email on admin@ everymantheatre.org.uk gloslivenews@reachplc.com