Orange Tree Theatre has announced that Ian McKellen will return to the stage for a rare and intimate show celebrating his extraordinary life in theatre.
The brand-new limited run, Stories, Stage & Shakespeare, will combine conversation and performance to raise vital funds for the Orange Tree Theatre in Richmond. All proceeds will support productions, community and education programmes, and the theatre’s upcoming capital project.
This special event will take place at Richmond Theatre for three performances only on 10 and 11 January 2026.
Ian McKellen said today, “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.”
OT Artistic Director Tom Littler added, “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, including an intimate reception at Scott’s Richmond with Sir Ian McKellen after the performance. Guests will enjoy champagne and canapés while celebrating this remarkable evening in support of the Orange Tree Theatre.
Priority booking for OT Members and Patrons opens Wednesday 17 December at 10am, followed by ATG+ Members on Thursday 18 December at 10am. General booking opens Friday 19 December at 10am.
Listings and ticket information can be found here
