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The actor Sir Ian McKellen, a Shakespearean actor also known as the wizard Gandalf in all three “Lord of the Rings” films, is coming to Chicago Shakespeare Theater for a one-night benefit performance in January.

According to an announcement Thursday, “One Knight Only” will play at 7 p.m. Jan. 30, 2026, in The Yard at Chicago Shakespeare Theater on Navy Pier. In addition to the public event, McKellen will present a free performance of the show for some 600 Chicago-area students and teachers. “One Knight Only” is described as McKellen “sharing his illustrious, 60-year career and reprising some of his most iconic roles. This will be his first performance in Chicago in 40 years.

McKellen is donating his performance as part of his activism to shar

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