I knew Cushing collected figures but never knew he was a wargamer. He commissioned the well-known miniaturist Frederick Ping to make him 54mm figures (some of Cushing in costume) in various Shakespearean roles, and then used them with a paper "toy theater" to plan out his positions for performances. The below text is from a 2003 auction by Vectis.
http://www.vectis.co.uk/Page/ViewLot.aspx?LotId=201111&Section=2794http://www.vectis.co.uk/Page/ViewLot.aspx?LotId=201110&Section=2794THE PETER CUSHING MODEL THEATRE Peter Cushing's Model Theatre
Wednesday 15th October 2003 12:00am
Lot 26
THE PETER CUSHING MODEL THEATRE Peter Cushing's model theatre was created by the actor in the late 1950's, measuring 76cm x 66cm x 57cm it comprises the stage into which can be slotted individual sets [see the following 10 lots], all the lighting rig, and a fully modelled front of house. It is a unique piece of British film & theatre history.The sets again built by Peter Cushing himself between 1958 - 1969 are mostly signed and are all contained in purpose built glass fronted wooden cases [19" x 18" x 11"], all slide out for insertion into the theatre model and are rigged for miniature lighting. The figures for each set were mostly commissioned from Frederick Ping and are likenesses in costume of the actors & actresses of each production represented.The theatre components, sets and figures will be first offered as a single lot, should no suitable bid be received, it will be sold in 11 lots as per the descriptions that follow [lots26 to 37] The Peter Cushing Theatre & sets complete
Medieval Set Suitable For Any Shakespearian Medieval Plays -
Wednesday 15th October 2003 12:00am
Lot 28
Medieval set suitable for any Shakespearian medieval plays - Henry VI, Hamlet or Macbeth etc, fully lit.Ping - Actors for Medieval set - individually modelled and painted [by Ping himself to a very high standard] 50mm foot figures comprising: Hamlet, Mistress Ford, Lord & Lady Macbeth, Orthello, King Lear, Romeo & Juliet, Shylock, Bolingbroke & 5 others .[15], some paint loss & minor bumps but otherwise very good.