Angus Newton Mackay, a renowned English actor, was born on July 15, 1926, and passed away on June 8, 2013, at the age of 86. Despite his Scottish name, Mackay had a quintessential English persona, often appearing on television in roles that showcased his repressed and officious nature.
With a 50-year career on the stage, Mackay brought a remarkable precision to his performances, ranging from Stoppard to Shaw. His passion for the stage began at a young age, and he was an indefatigable student actor, playing roles such as Heartfree in Vanburgh's The Provok'd Wife and Antipholous in a Comedy of Errors.
Mackay's early career was marked by a notable meeting with Julian Slade, who would become his lifelong friend and collaborator. Slade wrote the undergraduate musical Lady May, in which Mackay starred, and later formed a writing partnership with actress Dorothy Reynolds. Mackay would go on to act in many of their hits, including the record-breaking Salad Days, and marry Dorothy.
Throughout his career, Mackay worked with some of the most prominent figures in the industry, including Olivier, Vivien Leigh, and Albert Finney. He was also a long-standing member of the Bristol Old Vic, the Salisbury Arts, and the Everyman Cheltenham, where he was an active advocate for the preservation of these institutions.
Mackay's television career spanned over 30 years, with notable performances in shows such as Steptoe and Son and Breakdown. He was also a prolific stage actor, appearing in numerous productions, including the critically acclaimed Nicolson Fights Croydon, which he scripted and performed in.
After Dorothy's passing in 1977, Mackay opened his home to impoverished drama students, including a young Kenneth Branagh. He remained active in the industry until his retirement in 1993, leaving behind a legacy of impeccable performances and a treasure trove of theatrical knowledge.
Mackay's archive, which includes thousands of press clippings and copious diaries, is set to be made accessible, ensuring that his remarkable contributions to the world of theatre will continue to inspire future generations.
