Michelle Collins launches arts initiative with Ian McKellen and more

Michelle Collins has brought together the likes of Sir Ian McKellen and Elaine Paige for a new fundraising initiative.

The former \'Coronation Street\' and \'EastEnders\' star has teamed up with the Equity Benevolent Fund to support those in the entertainment industry who have been affected by the coronavirus pandemic.

The \'For the Love of Arts\' campaign brings together some of the best British talent to perform monologues from their own homes - which are available on the EBF YouTube channel - including a number of new and original pieces from a whole host of writers.

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Michelle said: "The current crisis has had a devastating effect on my industry affecting so many of us indiscriminately.

"I wanted to help. I started ringing around friends in the industry and one thing led to another and I suddenly had a list of fantastic, well known and highly respected film, TV and stage actors on board, all wanting to help in any way they could.

"I also have a group of extremely talented writers who have all agreed to write a monologue for whoever needs one."

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The likes of Sir Derek Jacobi, Sue Johnston, Lesley Manville, Mandeep Dhillon, Joseph Fiennes, Miriam Margolye and many more have all got involved.

The initiative aims to inspire and entertain people during such a difficult time, while raising money to support people left without work during the global health crisis.

Maureen Beattie OBE, Equity President, added: "Equity is hugely grateful to the actors, writers and the team at Genesius Pictures who have given their time and expertise to this vital project.

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"We are particularly grateful to Michelle Collins for her generosity and commitment to the welfare of her fellow workers in the entertainment industry.

"The money raised will make a crucial difference to the thousands of performers and creatives that the Equity Benevolent Fund helps in this crisis."

Donations can be made by texting EQUITY to 70470 to give £5 or to 70480 to give £10, or by heading to www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/equity-benevolentfund.