Sir Ian McKellen raises $354,000 for Christchurch theatre

British actor Sir Ian McKellen just ended his run of fifteen one-man shows throughout New Zealand in an effort to raise funds to restore Christchurch's earthquake-damaged Isaac Theatre Royal.

Reports suggest that the star of The Hobbit movie will be responsible for bringing in $354,000 to be contributed to the Isaac Theatre Royal.

Alongside McKellen's fundraising, another $100,000 was raised by a Flight of the Conchords concert, and $10,000 by a performance by British actress Miriam Margolyes and a personal donation by actor and writer Richard O'Brien.

As a result of the fundraising restoration work on the 104-year-old heritage theatre began last Monday (2nd July), the first stage being to restore the theatre's wel known dome. In special recognition of Sir Ian's contribution, one of the Royal boxes at the Isaac Theatre Royal, currently known as 'The Bard's Box' for its bust of William Shakespeare, will become the Ian McKellen Royal Suite.

Isaac Theatre Royal General Manager Neil Cox explained "it's been a very special two months. The theatre is one of the few historic buildings in Christchurch to survive the earthquakes and it is wonderful to know it can be rebuilt and serve as a beacon for Canterbury people. To Ian, Richard, Jemaine, Bret and Miriam, our heartfelt thanks and appreciation."

In one of his final shows, McKellen was joined by numerous cast members from The Hobbit, to the delight and surprise of the audience. It was reported that Aidan Turner, Richard Armitage, Luke Evans and Martin Freeman all appeared for an on-stage finale with audience participation.

During the shows, the first half focused on McKellen's famous role as Gandalf in Sir Peter Jackson's adaptations of Tolkien's works, detailing how he got involved and what his experience has been like over the years.

The actor then discussed the countless other theatrical roles he's played, from Shakespeare and beyond, including speeches and, at the end, would call upon audience members to take on the part of dead French soldiers while he delivers an inspirational speech on their behalf.

At the close of each performance audiences had the chance to contribute to the Christchurch rebuilding fund.

For more information go to www.isaactheatreroyal.co.nz/SupportUs/

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