Updates and news

RSC actors and Manchester United got together against Manhattan's skyline in New Jersey to mark their time in New York and their Olympic associations.

Richard Katz, Jonjo O'Neill and Dyfan Dwyfor, who are part of the RSC's six week residency in New York, met Manchester United player Michael Owen and Manager, Sir Alex Ferguson on the eve of Manchester United's win 4-0 win over the MLS All Stars in New York.

The actors Dfyan Dwyfor, Jonjo O'Neill and Richard Katz are all Manchester United fans and were thrilled about meeting their heroes in New York.

Dyfan Dwyfor (currently playing Romeo in Romeo and Juliet, Silvius in As You Like It and Dromio in The Comedy of Errors) said: 'Old Trafford is also called The Theatre of Dreams, and I can't quite believe that this summer I'm performing Shakespeare to appreciative New York audiences, but that I am also fulfilling my dream of meeting members of the Man United squad.'

Sir Alan Collins, British Consul-General in New York said 'Shakespeare and football are among Britain's most famous exports, to have two of the best representatives – Manchester United and the Royal Shakespeare Company here is a real treat. This time next year the greatest show on earth will come to the UK, not just to our capital, but all regions including Manchester and Stratford Upon Avon. From football to festivals it will be a great time to visit and enjoy the highest quality sport and culture. We are ready to welcome everybody.'

It is one year to go until the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games begin, Old Trafford hosts one of the preliminary games in the Olympic football tournament in 2012 and the RSC is leading The World Shakespeare Festival, part of London 2012 Festival for the Cultural Olympiad.