Ian McKellen and Roger Allam to star in Frank and Percy at The Other Palace

Ian McKellen and Roger Allam are to star in new comedy Frank and Percy at The Other Palace.

Ben Weatherill’s piece transfers from the Theatre Royal Windsor, running for a limited season in London from 8 September – 3 December 2023.

Ian McKellen stars as Percey and Roger Allam as Frank in the production, directed by Sean Mathias and produced by Bill Kenwright.

Frank and Percy is a poignant and witty take on the unexpected relationship that blossoms between two men. Devoted to their canine companions, they believe that human connection is far more temperamental, but, as their dogs play in the park, can Frank, a widowed schoolteacher, and Percy, a somewhat radical elder statesman, find the time for new love, or should they just let sleeping dogs lie?

Frank and Percy is designed by Morgan Large, with lighting design by Nick Richings and sound design by Andy Graham.

Director Sean Mathias said: “I cannot believe my luck in finding this charming and original new play. Ben Weatherill (Frank & Percy) is a true young talent in theatre. To have reunited Ian and Roger after almost 20 years since we all did Aladdin together at the Old Vic is a real coup. Frank and Percy explores the fragility and joy of relationships, and what forges and strengthens bonds between humans, at a time when more than ever, we all need to love and support one another.”

The production will also see the launch of a new writing development fund at The Other Palace. 50p from each ticket sold on all future productions in the main house, will be allocated to a ring-fenced fund specifically to support the development of new writing and emerging playwrights.

The Other Palace owner and producer Bill Kenwright said: “In welcoming Ian and Roger to our theatre we are also thrilled to use this limited London run at The Other Palace to launch our new development levy, to enable us to build upon MT Fest, our Musical Bites lunchtime series and Making a Musical podcast to provide further paid opportunities to develop the next generation of theatre makers and writers.”

For more information and tickets, visit theotherpalace.co.uk