Veteran actor Ian McKellen was honoured at the UK Theatre Awards on for his individual contributions to British theatre. The award ceremony took place on October 9 in London. McKellen was honoured with the Outstanding Contribution to British Theatre prize.

• The 77-year-old actor, best known for his roles in the “X-Men” and “Lord Of The Rings” film franchises, was recognised for “championing diversity and contribution to the British theatre” at the ceremony held at London’s Guildhall.
• During his acceptance speech, McKellen recalled his childhood memories of going to local theatre productions which inspired his dream of stepping on stage himself.
• McKellen, whose theatre career has spanned six decades and seen him perform at theatres all over the UK, said, “If it hadn’t been for those local theatres, where I did my first theatregoing, I wouldn’t be an actor, of course not.”
• Previous recipients of the accolade include Matthew Bourne, Timothy West and Prunella Scales. During the evening, actress Vanessa Redgrave was presented with The Gielgud Award For Excellence In The Dramatic Arts at the UK.

The UK Theatre Awards

• The TMA Awards, established in 1991, are presented annually by UK Theatre (previously known as the Theatrical Management Association) in recognition of creative excellence and outstanding work in United Kingdom theatres.
• In 2011, the ceremony was renamed as the Theatre Awards UK.
• They are the equivalent of American ATCA Regional Theatre Tony Awards only more extensive.