International icon becomes Christchurch's newest citizen

Christchurch has gained a new honorary citizen – Sir Ian McKellen.

To recognise his outstanding contribution to the cultural life of the city and exceptional service to the Isaac Theatre Royal, Christchurch City Council resolved at its meeting to appoint the 87-year-old British actor as an honorary citizen. 

Sir Ian was presented his honorary citizenship by Acting Mayor Victoria Henstock

during a visit to the Isaac Theatre Royal on Friday.

The civic honour recognises those from outside Christchurch who have contributed to the life of the city or who are distinguished by their eminence, talents, contributions or other merit.

Sir Ian is internationally regarded as one of the world’s most accomplished stage and screen actors for roles such as Gandalf in the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies, as well as his legendary career performing Shakespearean theatre.

The Acting Mayor said the actor has had a significant association with Christchurch which began in 2010 when he visited during a tour of Waiting for Godot.

“Following the Canterbury earthquakes, Sir Ian became a passionate advocate for the restoration of the Isaac Theatre Royal. When he was filming The Hobbit in 2012, he visited the damaged theatre and went on a nationwide fundraising tour, Shakespeare, Tolkien and You with the proceeds going to the Theatre’s restoration,” she said.

After 15 performances across the country, the campaign raised more than $350,000 with Sir Ian also making a personal contribution.

“Sir Ian has maintained his connection with the Theatre since its reopened, remaining a valued supporter of Christchurch’s cultural community,” the Acting Mayor said.

“His generosity, advocacy, impact and enduring commitment has left a lasting legacy for the city and its people, which perfectly sums up why we have appointed him an honorary citizen of Christchurch.”

The Isaac Theatre Royal recognises this support as instrumental in its post-earthquake recovery and helped secure the future in one of the city’s most significant heritage and performing arts venues.

One of the Theatre’s Royal Boxes has been permanently named the Sir Ian McKellen (Shakespeare) Box.