Sir Ian McKellen was taken to hospital after he fell from the stage just weeks before his performances in Norwich.

The Lord Of The Rings actor, who is currently playing John Falstaff in a production of Player Kings at the Noel Coward Theatre, was in a fight scene when he lost his footing and fell from the stage during Monday evening’s performance.

The 85-year-old was heard to cry out in pain as staff rushed to help.

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Sir Ian McKellen appeared to lose his footing during a fight sceneSir Ian McKellen lost his footing during a fight scene (Image: Isabel Infantes/PA)

Paul Critchley, a Methodist minister from Downham Market, who was at the West End show said: “Sir Ian seemed to trip as he moved downstage to take a more active part in the scene.

“He picked up momentum as he moved downstage which resulted in him falling off the stage directly in front of the audience.

“The house lights came up very quickly as the stage management and front-of-house team dealt with the incident.

"We were evacuated immediately so that Sir Ian could be treated in privacy.

“It was a shock to witness his fall and I wish him a speedy recovery.

"My thoughts are also with his fellow cast members, stage crew and front-of-house team at the Noel Coward Theatre.”

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After the fall the rest of the performance was cancelled and the audience left the theatre.

The show, a modern adaptation of Shakespeare's Henry IV, will keep the curtain closed tonight.

A spokesman for the London theatre said: "Following a scan, the brilliant NHS team have assured us that he will make a speedy and full recovery and Ian is in good spirits.

“The production has made the decision to cancel the performance on Tuesday, June 18, so Ian can rest."

The X-men actor will return to the stage on Wednesday well before his shows at the Norwich Theatre Royal from July 17 to July 20.