Following weeks of rumors, it has been confirmed that Arsenic and Old Lace, Joseph Kesselring's black comedy about homicidal old ladies, will begin previews at the Savoy Theatre on Feb. 14, 2003, and open on Feb. 25.

Starring in the play are Michael Richards (from "Seinfeld"), Stephen Tompkinson, Thelma Barlow and Marcia Warren .

Arsenic and Old Lace is produced by Katharine Doré, better known as producer of Matthew Bourne's earlier ballets, including the international hit Swan Lake. The play is directed by Matthew Francis, designed by Stephen Brimson Lewis, with lighting by one of the West End's most distinguished lighting designers, Mark Henderson.

Michael Richards joins the increasingly long list of American stars — he is mainly known for a string of successful television series in the States, including "Seinfeld," "St. Elsewhere," "Miami Vice," "Hills Street Blues" and "Cheers" — to appear on the West End stage.

Stephen Tompkinson is also a television star (Ballykissangel) but has been seen on the West End stage — in Art — and at the National in Tartuffe.

Thelma Barlow played Mavis in "Coronation Street" for many years, but has long experience of stage work, from Blithe Spirit to Smoking With Lulu at the Soho Theatre earlier this year.

Marcia Warren was in the West End earlier this year, winning an Olivier Award for her performance in Humble Boy at the National and then the Gielgud.

Arsenic and Old Lace, which is probably best known as a film (starring Cary Grant) was first seen in the West End in the 1940's, and was last produced there in 1977.

—By Paul Webb Theatrenow