Performances are scheduled to begin at the Theatre Royal, Haymarket Nov. 7 prior to an official opening Nov. 17. (Ludwig's adaptation of Treasure Island made its world premiere at Houston's Alley Theatre in May 2007, directed by the theatre's artistic director, Gregory Boyd.)

The production will be directed by Sean Holmes, who staged the Old Vic's revival of The Entertainer last year, and has worked extensively with the RSC. It is designed by Lizzie Clachan with lighting by Paul Anderson, music by Tom Haines and Ross Hughes, and sound by Emma Laxton. The show will feature a live band onstage.

Allen's previous stage credits include the double-bill of Harold Pinter's Celebration and The Room, seen at the Almeida in 2000, and a National Theatre revival of Pinter's The Homecoming in 1997.

Ludwig's other work includes the plays Lend Me a Tenor and Moon Over Buffalo and the book for the musical Crazy for You, all of which have been seen both in the West End and on Broadway. He also penned an adaptation of The Three Musketeers for the Bristol Old Vic in 2006.

Treasure Island is produced by Brian Eastman and Andrew Welch. To book tickets call the box office at 0845 481 1870 or visit www.treasureislandtheplay.com.