Laurence Olivier Honoured with English Heritage Blue Plaque in London

Ian McKellen unveiled an English Heritage blue plaque at 22 Lupus Street in Pimlico on Wednesday, marking Laurence Olivier's childhood home where he lived from age five to 12. The ceremony celebrated Olivier's early years in the area, where he developed his acting talent under the guidance of his father, a curate at St Saviour's church across the road. McKellen delivered tributes highlighting Olivier's lasting legacy, noting that while actors are often forgotten within 20 years of death, Olivier's memory endures through the theatre and awards named after him, as well as through his recorded performances. McKellen shared personal anecdotes of Olivier's encouragement during his own early career and performed Olivier's famous "once more unto the breach" speech from Henry V. National Theatre artistic director Indhu Rubasingham also spoke at the ceremony, emphasizing Olivier's courage and vision in establishing the National Theatre company. The article notes the profound influence of St Saviour's church on young Olivier, who was a choirboy and learned theatrical techniques from his father's sermons.