Mischa Barton to make UK stage debut in Double Indemnity at Liverpool Playhouse

Hollywood actress Mischa Barton is heading to the city this spring as she makes her long awaited UK stage debut at Liverpool Playhouse.

The former The O.C. star will lead the cast in a new stage adaptation of Double Indemnity, bringing one of the most iconic crime stories of the 20th century to Liverpool for a limited run from Tuesday 14 to Saturday 18 April.

Barton takes on the role of Phyllis Nirdlinger, the ultimate femme fatale in a dark and gripping tale of lust, greed and betrayal, inspired by Billy Wilder’s legendary film noir and the novel by James M. Cain.

Set in 1930s Los Angeles during the Great Depression, the story follows insurance salesman Walter Huff, played by Ciarán Owens, whose life takes a dangerous turn when he meets Phyllis while discussing her husband’s life insurance policy.

What begins as a routine visit quickly spirals into a deadly plot to commit the perfect crime, but as the tension builds so does the risk, with mistrust and guilt threatening to unravel everything.

Speaking ahead of the show’s Liverpool run, Barton said she’s looking forward to finally experiencing the city.

She said: “I’ve always heard such incredible things about Liverpool – the music history, the warmth of the people and the energy of the city. I’m really excited to finally experience that for myself and bring Double Indemnity here. I know the audiences will be amazing.”

The production also stars Martin Marquez as Keyes, alongside a full ensemble cast bringing the atmospheric story to life.

Adapted for the stage by Tom Holloway and directed by Oscar Toeman, the show promises a stylish and suspense filled take on the classic story, complete with striking design, lighting and original composition.

Double Indemnity runs at Liverpool Playhouse for one week only, with tickets priced from £17 to £47 and available now.

Shawshank Redemption is coming to Liverpool’s Playhouse Theatre this spring.

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