International stars of stage and screen usually perform in Auckland, and maybe Wellington at a push.
Over the weekend though, one of the world's most acclaimed actors chose a quieter venue to open his New Zealand tour – the small Taranaki town of Stratford.
Sir Ian McKellen is touring a one man show to raise money for the restoration of the earthquake damaged Theatre Royal in Christchurch.
Wath the video for Whena Owen’s full report