Sir Ian McKellen says he 'likes a surprise' as he bemoans theatres mollycoddling audiences

Sir Ian McKellen has said he is not a fan of how modern theatre audiences are mollycoddled with warning signs pandering to sensitivities.

Speaking to Sky News ahead of the first night of the London transfer of his new play Frank and Percy, the 84-year-old X-Men and Lord Of The Rings star said: "Outside theatres the audience is warned 'there is a loud noise', 'there are flashing lights', 'there is a reference to smoking', 'there is reference to bereavement'.

'I like to be surprised by loud noises and outrageous behaviour on stage.'

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