Sir Ian, whose best-known film roles include Gandalf in the Lord of the Rings trilogy and Magneto in X-Men, is embarking on an 80-date tour, visiting theatres to which he has a personal connection.
The show will include a mixture of anecdotes and acting, with members of the audience given the chance to join Sir Ian on stage.
Sir Ian said: ‘I’m celebrating my 80th birthday by touring a new solo show to theatres I know well and a few that I don’t. The show starts with Gandalf and will probably end with an invitation to act with me on stage.
‘Live theatre has always been thrilling to me, as an actor and in the audience. Growing up in Lancashire, I was grateful to those companies who toured beyond London and I’ve always enjoyed repaying that debt by touring up and down the country myself. I was last at the Opera House with Acting Shakespeare 30 years ago, and I’m delighted to be back.’
The two Jersey shows – which are due to take place on Friday 3 and Saturday 4 May next year – will raise money for the renovation of the dressing room and green room.
Jersey Opera House’s theatre director Jasmine Hendry said: ‘I am delighted that Sir Ian McKellen will be returning to the Jersey Opera House after so many years. It is wonderful that he still has fond memories of his visit to Jersey and has included us on his 80 Stages tour. The fact that our venue will also benefit from Sir Ian’s generosity on his 80th birthday means that all of our local and visiting performers will be able to enjoy his hospitality through the renovation of the dressing rooms and the green room.’
Tickets for the shows go on general release on Monday and can be booked by contacting the Box Office on 511115 or at www.jerseyoperahouse.co.uk.
