Watch Andy Serkis Read from The Hobbit On Stage as Gollum

A celebration took place at the Fulham Palace Gardens this weekend for the 75th anniversary of J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit. The celebration was complete with a recreation of the Shire, but the main attraction was actor Andy Serkis (who portrays the iconic character of Gollum) reading from the historic novel in character before a live audience.

In addition to reading an excerpt from the novel in his trademark Gollum voice, Serkis speaks of the difficulties behind getting back into character after a 12-year break. The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey hits theaters on Dec. 14 in 2D, 3D and IMAX.

Check out the video of Serkis below.