The stage and screen star cut the ribbon on Ensemble ‘84’s new home The Playhouse, formerly the Roman Catholic Church, in Horden.
The acclaimed thespian unveiled a commemorative plaque at the new venue as the group stages its first show at its new home, “The Tragicall Historie of Hamlet – Shakespeare’s First Quarto” next week.
“It is very moving to meet this theatre group and their wonderful venue,” Sir Ian told Hartlepool Life. “It is amazing to think that this is the only company of actors in the UK and it is right here in Horden. I think that the ensemble performing Hamlet here will be the most important theatrical event in the UK this year.”
Although born and raised in Lancashire, Sir Ian revealed that he has a family connection with this part of the country.
He said: “My step mother’s brother-in-law was the pit manager at Houghton-le-Spring for many years, before it was closed down. I grew up in Wigan, which was a coal mining town, so I have a bit of an affinity with the area. It is a joy to talk with the people who make up Ensemble 84 and what they are doing here is bringing enormous possibilities for change and renewal.”
Alongside future productions,
the venue will also provide a permanent home for training, workshops, rehearsal space and community activity.
“The Tragicall Historie of Hamlet runs” from 26 May to 6 June.
For more information or tickets visit www.ensemble84.com/first-quarto-hamlet.
