Ian McKellen ‘emotional’ as he opens County Durham theatre space
Summary
Famous actor Ian McKellen opened a new theatre space for Ensemble 84 in Horden, a village in County Durham. The theatre company gives local people chances to act and work full-time, helping bring hope and jobs to the area.Key Facts
- Ian McKellen officially opened a theatre space in a former Catholic church in Horden, County Durham.
- Ensemble 84 is a theatre company started 18 months ago that hires local actors and performers on contract.
- McKellen criticized large theatres for not employing actors full-time like old repertory companies once did.
- The company has about 15 core actors and is preparing its third production, including a play called Hamlet.
- Ensemble 84 was founded by director Mark Dornford-May, who previously co-founded a troupe in South Africa.
- Dornford-May said Ensemble 84 is probably the biggest employer in Horden since the local coal mines closed.
- The theatre company brings new hope and opportunities to an area often known for poverty and unemployment.
- Some actors, like Willow Pearson, have left other careers or studies to join the company.
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