Olivier Honored With Blue Plaque in London

A blue plaque has been placed outside the London home of the renowned actor Laurence Olivier, joining esteemed figures like David Garrick and Oscar Wilde. Sir Ian McKellen officiated the unveiling at 22 Lupus Street in Pimlico, where Olivier resided from age five to twelve. It was in this residence that Olivier first discovered his passion for acting, nurtured by his father, a curate at the nearby St Saviour's church.

During the ceremony, McKellen reflected on the ephemeral nature of an actor's fame, noting that Olivier's memory persists through theatre and awards, but most vividly through his performances. He recounted how Olivier had once sent him a message expressing regret over "lost opportunities" and praised McKellen's performance of Macbeth. McKellen also delivered a stirring rendition of the "once more unto the breach" speech from Henry V, a piece Olivier had recorded.

Indhu Rubasingham, artistic director of the National Theatre, spoke of Olivier's courage and vision in establishing the National Theatre company. The church of St Saviour's, where Olivier was a choirboy and his father a preacher, also played a significant role in his formative years, influencing his appreciation for impactful oration and perhaps instilling values of service that marked his entire career.