Ian McKellen and Jeremy Corbyn Star in Islington Pantomime

Key Points

• Sir Ian McKellen will star alongside former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn in a Christmas pantomime in Islington.
• McKellen plays Toto, described as a “washed up rock star dog,” while Corbyn takes the role of the Wizard of Oz-lington.
• The show is a comic blend of Wicked and The Wizard of Oz, running from November 18 to December 31 at the Pleasance Theatre.
• Performances include both child-friendly and adults-only shows, the latter containing strong language and sexual references.
• The pantomime features prominent non-binary drag performers and is written by ShayShay, a non-binary dramatist known for queer-themed adaptations.
• The project marks a crossover for McKellen and Corbyn, both with strong ties to left-wing politics and previous work in arts and activism.
• Corbyn’s new political venture, Your Party, has recently faced public internal disputes and resignations.

What roles will Ian McKellen and Jeremy Corbyn play in the pantomime?

As reported by Craig Simpson of The Telegraph, Sir Ian McKellen, renowned for his role as Gandalf in The Lord of the Rings, will perform as Toto, characterised as a “washed up rock star dog.” Jeremy Corbyn, the former Labour leader, will portray the Wizard of Oz-lington—a nod to his north London constituency. The casting signals an unusual and playful partnership between the veteran actor and the ex-politician.

What kind of show is Wicked Witches and when is it scheduled?

The pantomime, described by ShayShay—the writer and non-binary dramatist known for queer adaptations—as a “comic blend” of the musical Wicked and The Wizard of Oz, will run from November 18 through December 31 at the Pleasance Theatre in Islington. The production promises a mix of performances suited for children as well as adults-only shows noted for “strong language” and “sexual references.” Alongside McKellen and Corbyn, the cast includes prominent non-binary drag performers, reflecting a contemporary and inclusive approach to the traditional pantomime format.

What has Ian McKellen said about his role in the pantomime?

Sir Ian McKellen, aged 86, told The Telegraph:

“Having survived – just – my appearance in the film of Cats, I am thrilled, relieved even, to now be offered the role of a dog – Toto, no less, in Wicked Witches. I would be barking mad to refuse.”

This statement combines self-deprecating humour with enthusiasm for the role, reflecting his long history of engaging creatively with diverse mediums and themes.

How has McKellen previously expressed his political views regarding Jeremy Corbyn?

As covered by Craig Simpson of The Telegraph referencing a 2017 interview, McKellen had praised Corbyn’s authenticity and principle-driven politics:

“Well, if I were a politician I would like to be just like Corbyn. I would like to say it how it is, and that ‘I don’t know how to do this but I would like the world to be a better place’—rather than be someone who talks about the economy. Because, frankly, nobody understands the economy.”

He also expressed support for other Labour politicians, endorsing Wes Streeting as “one of the great young politicians” with solid principles.

How does this pantomime fit into Jeremy Corbyn’s recent activities?

Jeremy Corbyn, now 76, has shown increasing involvement in arts as well as politics. According to The Telegraph, after founding the Peace and Justice Project in 2020, which runs the campaign Music for the Many, Corbyn has embraced the pantomime as a “local theatre” initiative where

“the real wizardry happens, sparking imagination and spreading a bit of joy.”

This artistic venture offers a different public dimension compared to his political career.

What controversies have surrounded Jeremy Corbyn’s new political party?

Corbyn’s new hard-left political vehicle, Your Party, co-founded with former Labour MP Zarah Sultana, has encountered significant internal turmoil. Reports from The Telegraph detail public clashes and resignations, such as Blackburn MP Adnan Hussain’s departure citing a “toxic” culture, especially amid disputes over gender-critical views. Zarah Sultana has publicly opposed Iqbal Mohamed, another independent MP associated with the party, over social media posts on transgender issues, affirming that Your Party remains “resolutely pro-trans.” These controversies have attracted media attention and raised questions about the party’s cohesion and direction.

Who are the creative forces behind the pantomime?

The playwright ShayShay, who wrote Wicked Witches, is a non-binary dramatist previously known for creating a

“semi-immersive sequel to Wicked/The Wizard of Oz, in which all the characters are queer.”

This background deeply influences the pantomime’s themes and casting, blending drag culture and queer perspectives into a classic story. It further underlines the show’s progressive and inclusive creative vision.