Lord of the Rings' Gandalf to launch charity at Stepney pub

25 November 2009

SIR Ian McKellen is to launch a new arts and community charity in a party at a Stepney pub this evening.

The Limehouse-based actor, who has starred in films including The Lord of the Rings and X-Men, is due to appear at the launch of Turangalila at the George Tavern in Commercial Road from 8pm, which is to feature live performances organised by actress Andrea Riseborough.

Artists and creatives hope to reclaim a disused building in nearby Jubilee Street and turn it into a community and arts centre run by the new charity.

The night is also being held to celebrate pub landlady Pauline Forster's 60th birthday.