Sir Ian McKellen to open all trans and non-binary reading of ‘Twelfth Night’

Trans What You Will is partnering with LGBTQ+ icon Sir Ian McKellen to present a new interpretation of a Shakespeare classic.

On July 25, this new theatre company will launch with a one-night-only staged reading of the cherished play ‘Twelfth Night’, featuring an entirely trans and non-binary cast, according to ‘Gay Times’.

‘X-Men’ star McKellen will introduce the performance directed by Phoebe Kemp, which will take place at The Space Theatre in London.

For Shakespeare fans who cannot attend the landmark event, a global live stream of the show will be available.

Moreover, all proceeds from this production will support Not a Phase, a UK-based trans-led charity dedicated to enhancing the lives of trans+ adults through awareness initiatives, social projects, and support for trans+ led programs.

Twelfth Night tells the story of twins Viola and Sebastian, who are separated following a shipwreck. Viola, under the guise of ‘Cesario’, serves Duke Orsino. The plot thickens when Viola falls for Orsino, who believes he loves Countess Olivia.

The romantic escapades continue as Countess Olivia becomes enamored with ‘Cesario’, leading to a series of humorous and revealing events.

The romantic comedy has inspired numerous adaptations and interpretations over the years, including the films ‘Just One of the Guys’ (1985) and ‘She’s The Man’ (2006). The play has been praised for its exploration of gender and its queer themes and nuance.

Kemp expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming reading, stating, “Twelfth Night already toys with gender and performance – it feels like Shakespeare wrote it for us.

“This reading is about joy, solidarity, and showing what’s possible when trans and nonbinary artists are at the centre of the story.”

A production company spokesperson shared similar thoughts, noting, “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 story through the lived experiences of trans and nonbinary artists.”

For more information on ticket prices for Trans What You Will’s rehearsed reading of ‘Twelfth Night’, click here.