Vanessa Redgrave, an iconoclastic actor equally adept in classic or modern roles for stage or screen, has played in and directed Antony and Cleopatra a number of times since 1973, both in the UK and the USA. Using those experiences she delves into the background history and the foreground of character to form a dazzling mosaic of insights into the art of play.

Shakespeare's work is important in shaping our language and character. The enduring popularity and success of Shakespearean productions in theatre and on film is a truly international and cross-cultural phenomenon. The aim of the Actors on Shakespeare series is to provide a unique and accessible contemporary commentary to each of the plays via top-class actors who have performed in them.