The Australian actor, John Allen, was born and raised in Sydney and trained at the National Institute of Dramatic Art, from which he holds a degree. After graduating in 1969 he rapidly established himself in the theatre, appearing in some eighteen productions at the prestigious Melbourne Theatre Company followed by a period at the Old Tote Theatre Company in Sydney. This culminated in the opening season of the Sydney Opera House and a tour with the Company to London and the West End. After returning to Australia he continued to play a wide range of roles in theatre, film and television in a career that has spanned more than three decades and has included many notable productions. On stage he has moved easily between the classics and contemporary drama and comedy, particularly farce, and on television is a familiar face from any number of quality shows, including telemovies and miniseries that have had a wide international release. His film work includes the Australian classic "The Odd Angry Shot" and the award winning "The Space Between The Door and the Floor". He has also written for the theatre and is an accomplished painter.