It really does speak to a basic human decency when someone is unable to perform, but feels duty-bound to give an audience something for showing up, and that's exactly what happened with Sir Ian McKellen at a performance at the Duke Of York's Theatre yesterday afternoon.
The veteran actor injured himself while attempting to catch a train on his way to London yesterday and was, sadly, unable to perform 'King Lear' for a packed auditorium later that day. So, rather than simply cancel the show and leave everyone out of pocket for their time, McKellen decides to hold an impromptu Q&A with the audience and speak fondly of his love for theatre and Shakespeare.
Sir Ian McKellen injured himself running to catch a train, and this afternoon’s performance of King Lear is cancelled. Instead, McKellen is chatting with the audience taking questions, and it is pretty incredible. pic.twitter.com/UcNLiWNgE7
— Katie Simpson (@CBCKatie) August 4, 2018
On top of that, McKellen also gave his opinion on actors using microphones in theatre (doesn't approve) and advice to young actors starting out (don't do it), as well as rattling off a few scenes from 'Lord Of The Rings' off the top of his head.
The whole event went on for about an hour, with McKellen taking a bow from a standing ovation from both the audience and the actors at the wings of the stage. That, right there, is an example of genuine class.
Standing ovation for Sir Ian McKellen, who welcomed his cast mates to the stage after being unable to perform. While I’m obviously disappointed to not see King Lear, it was a privilege to hear McKellen share his thoughts on theatre this afternoon. pic.twitter.com/r8TCWJJJwX
— Katie Simpson (@CBCKatie) August 4, 2018
