An Austin friend is visiting London and happened to be at the Monday night performance of *Player Kings* when Sir Ian McKellen, playing Falstaff, took a nasty tumble off the front of the stage. She described the event as "traumatic" for the whole audience because "we could hear him screaming" in pain. The show was stopped and everyone was ushered out of the theatre, with many of them sobbing. Apparently, Sir Ian fractured his wrist. Earlier today, she was told that the Monday night audience was being given tickets to a Wednesday matinee with Sir Ian performing, but that matinee has since been canceled.
Here's wishing a swift recovery and a bottomless cup of sack to one of the great Shakespearans of our age (or any age). Rest up and get well soon, Sir Ian!
Robert