Sir Ian McKellen to Present All-Trans and Non-Binary ‘Twelfth Night’ Performance in London

Sir Ian McKellen, acclaimed actor known for his roles in the ‘Lord of the Rings,’ is set to introduce a groundbreaking UK performance of William Shakespeare’s ‘Twelfth Night’ featuring an all-transgender and non-binary cast this summer.

The Trans What You Will theater group will livestream their innovative rendition of the classic comedy on July 25 at The Space theater in London. This event aims to highlight the talents of underrepresented voices in the arts.

As part of the casting call, the theater group announced that they are seeking a diverse ensemble of 12 to 14 trans and non-binary performers. They expressed their commitment to inclusivity, stating that they particularly welcome individuals from multiply marginalized backgrounds in order to reflect the wide spectrum of the trans community.

In a recent announcement on social media, the theater group proudly declared, ‘Iconic actor and LGBTQ+ activist, Sir Ian McKellen, will be introducing our show!’ This news has generated considerable excitement among theater enthusiasts and advocates for representation in the arts.

Sir Ian McKellen himself shared his enthusiasm for the project, stating, ‘Twelfth Night is perhaps the funniest and most moving of Shakespeare’s plays. This masterpiece captures the complexity of gender and sexuality from start to finish. I am eager to witness the impact of this fresh interpretation of the play at The Space. I hope to see you there!’

The director, Phoebe Kemp, emphasized the play’s inherent themes of gender and performance. She remarked, ‘Twelfth Night already toys with gender and performance – it feels like Shakespeare wrote it for us. This reading is about joy, solidarity, and showcasing what’s possible when trans and non-binary artists take center stage.’

A spokesperson for the Trans What You Will theater company noted the timeless nature of the play’s themes. They stated, ‘With mistaken identities, cross-dressing, and declarations of love across shifting gender roles, ‘Twelfth Night’ has long explored the complexity of identity. This production makes that queerness explicit, reclaiming the narrative through the lived experiences of trans and non-binary artists.’

The production also has a charitable aspect. According to its crowdfunding campaign, a portion of the profits will be donated to Not a Phase, a charity dedicated to supporting the trans community. This organization aims to uplift and improve the lives of trans adults through awareness campaigns and social projects.

Not a Phase describes itself as a ‘trans-led, nationwide charity committed to uplifting and improving the lives of trans+ adults, through awareness campaigning, social projects and funding trans+ led initiatives.’ Their mission reinforces the importance of community support and visibility for the trans population.

This performance of ‘Twelfth Night’ represents a significant step forward in the ongoing conversation around representation in performing arts. The choice to feature an all-trans and non-binary cast not only highlights the talents of these performers but also challenges traditional casting norms. Audiences can expect a distinctive interpretation of Shakespeare’s work, showcasing the beauty of diversity and the relevance of LGBTQ+ narratives.

As the event date approaches, the anticipation continues to build. Theatergoers and supporters from various backgrounds are encouraged to engage with this historical production, which aims to promote inclusivity while celebrating the complexities of identity.

This innovative performance is not only a celebration of Shakespeare’s enduring contributions to the arts but also an important moment for the representation of marginalized communities. By centering trans and non-binary stories within a classic text, the production seeks to inspire future generations of performers and audiences alike.

In sum, the upcoming all-trans and non-binary rendition of ‘Twelfth Night’ is set to make waves in the UK theater scene. With the celebrated Sir Ian McKellen at the helm and a diverse cast ready to showcase their talents, this production promises to be a memorable experience for all who attend.