Ian McKellen to Appear as Hologram in European Premiere of 'An Ark' at Manchester's Aviva Studios

Sir Ian McKellen will star as a hologram in the European premiere of Simon Stephens' play 'An Ark' at Factory International Aviva Studios in Manchester. The 87-year-old actor, born in Burnley, appears alongside Bridgerton's Golda Rosheuvel in 3D holographic form, created using 52 cameras filming from multiple angles. The production, which debuted in New York, also features West End star Arinze Kene and Rosie Sheehy. McKellen called a new Stephens play 'always an excitement,' adding that the unique performance format 'feels more like an explosion.' He said the cast 'relished the chance to explore a new way of acting,' noting New York's positive reception and declaring 'Now it's Manchester's turn.' Sheehy described the making of the production as 'a true adventure,' saying experimenting with theatre's possibilities is 'always a thrill' and that stretching boundaries 'can feel terrifying at times,' though the extraordinary group replaced fear with excitement and reward. McKellen moved to Wigan as a child but remained faithful to his Burnley roots, performing at Burnley Youth Theatre in 2019 during his 80th birthday tour. The production runs from 27 March to 10 April.