Allen to make West End stage debut

6:14am Friday 5th September 2008

Keith Allen is to make his West End stage debut in a new production of Treasure Island.

The actor and father of singer Lily Allen will star as pirate Long John Silver in the adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson's book.

Allen, 55, whose film credits include Trainspotting, Shallow Grave and 24 Hour Party People, has a reputation for playing villains.

He recently appeared on the small screen as the Sheriff of Nottingham in the BBC's production of Robin Hood.

Allen's stage roles include Harold Pinter's The Celebration and the Homecoming at the Royal National Theatre.

The actor's son, Alfie, recently appeared naked on stage in the play Equus but is better known for his bust-ups with girlfriend Jaime Winstone.

Treasure Island opens at the Theatre Royal Haymarket on November 17.