First Poster for Jones & Redgrave In Rylance's MUCH ADO

The gorgeous first poster for Tony Award-winning actor and passionate director Mark Rylance's new UK production of William Shakespeare's classic comedy MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING starring Hollywood/Broadway/West End icons James Earl Jones and Vanessa Redgrave has been unveiled.

Depicting two embracing lovers in silhouette astride suitcases packed and ready for travel, the mostly sepia-hued, monochrome image expertly depicts the romantic allure of the oft-performed canonical comic trifle.

Of note, the unusual casting of elder actors such as Jones and Redgrave in the pivotal roles of Benedick and Beatrice, respectively, is a striking choice sure to inspire discussion and debate among Shakespeare fans, making this upcoming West End revival a must-see for Bard buffs.

The official plot description from the official site is as follows: "While young lovers Claudio and Hero threaten to have their imminent nuptials thwarted by the resentful scheming of a Prince, marriage seems inconceivable for reluctant lovers Beatrice (Vanessa Redgrave) and Benedick (James Earl Jones). Redgrave and Earl Jones take on these roles for the first time."

In addition to Jones and Redgrave, the cast of MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING also includes Tim Barlow, Penelope Beaumont, Kingsley Ben-Adir, Katherine Carlton, Beth Cooke, Alan David, Michael Elwyn, Lloyd Everitt, James Garnon, Melody Grove, Trevor Laird, Leroy Osei-Bonsu, Mark Ross, Peter Wight and Danny Lee Wynter.

MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING begins previews on September 7 with an opening set for September 19 at the Old Vic in London's West End.

More information on MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING is available at the official site here.

View a larger version of the new poster for MUCH ADO ABOUT NOTHING starring Jones and Redgrave, directed by Mark Rylance, below.