Cate Blanchett may star as Cleopatra in Sydney, AU

Photo: KeystoneUSA-ZUMA/Rex Features

Rumors are going around that Cate Blanchett may star as Cleopatra opposite Richard Roxburgh in Shakespeare's Antony and Cleopatra opening in Sydney towards the end of next year, before launching a European tour. Sydney Theatre Company (STC) said British director Declan Donnellan had just conducted workshops with company actors last week. A spokesman said that Antony and Cleopatra was one project being considered. However, it has been speculated that the production could depend on Blanchette retiring from the company, where her three-year contract is up for renewal in November 2013, making Cleopatra Blanchett's STC swansong.