A number of high-profile celebrities are joining the push to have a memorial to gay playwright Joe Orton in his home city of Leicester, UK.
Born in 1933, Orton, known for his black comedies including Entertaining Mr Sloane, Loot and What the Butler Saw, was murdered in 1967 and left behind diaries which depict invaluable accounts of what life was like for gay men before homosexuality was decriminalised in the UK.
The Joe Orton Statue Appeal, run by surviving family members and Orton expert Dr Emma Parker, is hoping to raise £120,000 to have the statue designed, created and erected. The playwright's sister, Leonie Orton, hopes the statue will "serve as an inspirational reminder that talent is everywhere and art is for everyone, regardless of social background or circumstance.”
Sir Ian McKellan was quick to back the campaign, saying: "The idea that in Orton Square there should be a statue, a memorial to Joe Orton, is terrific."
Stephen Fry also added his support, saying: “Joe Orton has always been a hero to me, both in his work and in the authenticity, wit and wonder of his life. A statue is a wonderful idea."
“I have craved Orton’s writing for a long time, whether I’m sitting on stage or performing in the cast,” actor Alec Baldwin said, according to the campaign's website.
“There are no comparisons. He’s a true original. Half poet, half devil’s apprentice. I never tire of his wit, soul and anarchy.”
