Former Coronation Street actress Shobna Gulati is recovering at home after she was 'knocked out' by falling scenery at Shakespeare's Globe. Stunned audience members watched in horror as Gulati was left motionless on stage. The 52-year-old is believed to have been hit by something that 'fell out of the ceiling' during a Richard II play.
The play’s leading actress and co-director Adjoa Andoh then stepped in to halt the performance at the Sam Wanamaker Playhouse, on Bankside, south-east London, last Thursday.
One audience member said those around her thought the incident was part of the show until someone on stage yelled: 'Is there a doctor in the house?'
A statement from Shakespeare's Globe said: 'Shobna Gulati was injured during a performance of Richard II on 28 March, but is recovering well at home. An investigation is under way. Shobna hopes to return to the role this week.'
Gulati is starring as the Duke of York in the play, which has wowed critics and is the first adaptation of the Bard's work comprising a cast entirely of black and minority ethnic women.
Gulati tweeted her fans: 'Thank you so much for all your messages. I'm recovering at home and being wonderfully cared for by my son, my #RichardII family and the team @The-Globe. I'll let you know when I'm back on stage, but hopefully it'll be this week!'
Performances were cancelled on Friday and Sunday afternoon. The show resumed on Sunday evening with Ann Ogbomo filling in for Gulati.
