An investigation has been launched at Shakespeare’s Globe after an actress in a groundbreaking production of Richard III was knocked out by falling scenery.

Shobna Gulati was playing the Duke of York when the accident happened on stage shortly after the interval.

Audience members at first thought the fall was part of the performance, until the stage manager rushed out and asked: “Is there a doctor in the house?” An ambulance was called and Gulati was taken to hospital.

The actress, 52, best known for her roles in Coronation Street and Dinnerladies, was appearing as part of the first all-women-of-colour company to stage a Shakespeare play in the UK.

The production was halted and three subsequent shows were cancelled. The play returned on Monday with another actress playing Gulati’s role, but a Globe spokesman said she is expected to return to the stage this week.