SYNOPSIS
Treasure IslandRobert Louis Stevenson’s 1883 adventure novel Treasure Island has been adapted for the West End and will set up base over the festive period in the historic Theatre Royal Haymarket. Directed by the experienced Sean Holmes and with a cast led by Keith Allen as Long John Silver, Treasure Island has the makings of a perfect family outing – expect treasure hunts, sword fights and non-stop action.
In the 18th Century, Jim Hawkins is your average youngster, living with his parents just outside of Bristol. However, Jim’s life is turned upside down when an old sea captain named Billy Bones dies in his parent’s inn. Jim is determined to find out why the captain suddenly died having being presented with a black spot. Searching through Billy’s sea chest, Jim finds a logbook and a map. The discovery of a treasure map combined with Jim’s friends’ connections with a pirate ship results in an expedition that can compare to nothing else! Will Jim ever find the long lost treasure on Treasure Island or more importantly, will he even leave the island alive?
Treasure Island will be directed by Sean Holmes, who has directed several plays for the Royal Shakespeare Company as well as being an associate director at the Oxford Stage Company. Another of Holmes’ productions will overlap with the run of Treasure Island; in association with RSC, Twelfth Night will be shown at the Tricycle Theatre in London at the start of December. Holmes also has strong links with Chichester and in particular, The Minerva theatre.
Taking on the role of Long John Silver is father of award-winning pop singer Lily and actor Alfie; Keith Allen, a British icon having been involved in the British comedy and acting scene in the early 1980’s. Allen’s portrayal of a drug dealer in the highly-acclaimed motion picture Trainspotting led him to star in many high profile TV dramas; most recently as the Sheriff of Nottingham in the BBC Drama Robin Hood. Allen’s work within the music industry must also be noted, having been a founding member of Fat Les as well as being associated with the band New Order.
Jim Hawkins will be portrayed by Michael Legge, an Irish-born actor who has appeared in numerous stage, television and radio roles. His most notable performance came as teenager Frank McCourt in the 1999 film, Angela’s Ashes.
Treasure Island appears at the Theatre Royal Haymarket from 17th November 2008 to 28th February 2009.
