'The Dresser' with Anthony Hopkins, Ian McKellen to air in the U.S. on Starz

LONDON, Jan. 12 (UPI) -- Starz says it is teaming up with the BBC on the television adaptation of Ronald Harwood's classic play The Dresser.

Set against the backdrop of World War II and inspired by Harwood's own experiences as a dresser for the distinguished British actor/manager Donald Wolfit, the telepicture will star Anthony Hopkins and Ian McKellen.

This will mark the first time the pair work together.

The program will begin production in London this year and will air at a later date on BBC Two in the United Kingdom and on Starz in the United States.

"The Dresser is a timeless and poignant story about the relationship between artists, and to have this classic play brought to life on-screen by such acting giants as Anthony Hopkins and Ian McKellen is thrilling," Carmi Zlotnik, managing director of Starz, said in a statement. "We are glad to be working in partnership again with the BBC and Colin Callender on this very special project, and to be establishing a relationship with acclaimed theater producer Sonia Friedman."

"This production is a testament to the commitment of the BBC and Starz to bring quality drama to the screen," added Callender, the movie's executive producer. "It is also a testament to Ronald Harwood's glorious writing that we have been able to bring together such a wonderful creative team from the worlds of film, television and the theater."