Atkinson to play Fagin in new 'Oliver!'

Rowan Atkinson will star as Fagin in the latest West End production of Oliver!

The Mr Bean actor confirmed that he would perform the role alongside the winners of Andrew Lloyd Webber's latest talent show I'd Do Anything.

Speaking about the part, Atkinson told the BBC: "In the 1980s I enjoyed doing a lot of West End theatre and since then have been distracted very much by Mr Bean and film-making.

"I had been thinking for some time about returning to the stage, and the idea of the role of Fagin has long intrigued me. I even had the part in a school production."

Producer Sir Cameron Mackintosh commented: "I’m thrilled that Rowan has finally reviewed the situation and succumbed to his long-held ambition to play Fagin.

"We have been discussing the possibility on and off for many years."

The latest production of the Lionel Bart Musical opens in December at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane.