The play, to be directed by Bill Alexander, begins performances May 5 for a run through June 25. Based on the real-life legendary feud between the two stars, the play shows them at a low point in their careers when they meet on the set of "Whatever happened to Baby Jane?," which becomes a surprise hit that propels them back to stardom. The summer season at the theatre will also include the London premiere of Frank Strausser's Park Avenue Cat, to be directed by Glen Walford for a run from June 30-Aug. 19, as well as six performances of David Wood's Storytime, to play over Easter from April 19-23, with Wolfgang Weinberger’s A Guide to Sexual Misery continuing performances April 7-9, 14-16, 21-23 and April 28 and 30.

In a press statement, Mig Kimpton, the theatre's executive director, commented, "The Arts Theatre continues to provide a stage in the middle of Central London open to new and exciting work. Our aim for the theatre is to present short seasons of work which cross genres and appeal to a wide variety of audiences. It will also be a place for performers, writers and producers to experiment, develop and entertain. In our forthcoming season, we have a truly eclectic mix of theatre including the iconic children's theatre practitioner David Wood with his one man show of stories, magic, music and audience participation. We are also proud to host the world premiere of Bette & Joan - cast with two great theatrical talents, Greta Scacchi and Anita Dobson. Our summer season finishes with the London premiere of a hot new play from USA - Park Avenue Cat by Frank Strausser. This clever play brings mistaken identity and the heady world of LA dating to the therapist's couch."

To book tickets, contact the box office on 020 7907 7092, or visit www.artstheatrewestend.com.