Keira Knightley to make West End debut in Moliere play

British actress Keira Knightley will make her debut on a West End theatre stage this year in a modern adaptation of French playwright Moliere's The Misanthrope.

The 24-year-old film star, nominated for an Oscar for her portrayal of Elizabeth Bennet in Pride & Prejudice, will be performing at London's Comedy Theatre from December 7. 

The action of the original comedy will be transported from 17th century France to modern-day London.

According to a statement, Alceste, played by Damian Lewis, will be turned into a famous but disillusioned British playwright who vows to reject a society which he sees as shallow.

But when he falls madly in love with Jennifer (Knightley), an ambitious American film star and "darling of the social scene", his intentions are quickly challenged.