A new stage adaptation of one of the greatest crime novels of the 20th century, Double Indemnity stars Mischa Barton (The O.C.) in her long awaited UK stage debut.
Inspired by Billy Wilder’s legendary film noir masterpiece, the production comes to the Liverpool Playhouse for one week only from Tuesday 14 to Saturday 18 April.
Mischa Barton leads the cast of Double Indemnity as the ultimate femme fatale, Phyllis Nirdlinger, in this powerful story that is set to thrill audiences this April at the Liverpool Playhouse.
Mischa is a versatile actress with a career spanning over two decades across film, television, and stage. Born in London, she made her film debut in Lawn Dogs and rose to global fame as Marissa Cooper in the hit series The O.C.
Ahead of Double Indemnity landing in Liverpool, Mischa 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 to this iconic city. I know the audiences will be amazing.”
The production features Ciarán Owens as Walter Huff and Martin Marquez as Keyes. Gillian Saker performs as Nettie, Waitress, and Usher (understudying Phyllis Nirdlinger), while Joseph Langdon portrays Mr. Norton, Nino, and Joe Pete. Oliver Ryan takes on the roles of Mr. Nirdlinger, Jack Christholf and Jackson, while Sophia Roberts stars as Lola Nirdlinger. Ensemble members include Simon Victor who also understudies Keyes, Mr. Nirdlinger, Jack Christholf and Jackson, Estelle Cousins who also understudies Lola, Nettie, the Waitress and the Usher and Patrick Fleming who also understudies Walter Huff, Mr. Norton, Nino, and Joe Pete.
Los Angeles, 1930’s. Amidst the wreckage of the Great Depression, Walter Huff, a sharp-eyed insurance salesman, has built his career spotting scams. But when he meets the dangerously seductive Phyllis Nirdlinger (Barton) to discuss her husband’s life insurance policy, he finds himself drawn into a web of lust, greed, and betrayal. Together they plot the perfect crime: murder the husband, cash in the policy, and disappear into the Californian sunset.
But passion can cloud judgement, and guilt can corrode the most perfect of plans. With each step increasingly risky, and as mistrust simmers, will Walter and Phyllis outsmart the law – or each other?
James M. Cain’s gripping novel is adapted for the stage by Tom Holloway and directed by Oscar Toeman, with set and costume design by Ti Green, alongside lighting by Josh Gadsby and sound design and composition by Dan Balfour. With additional composition from Zak Gavi and wig, hair and makeup design courtesy of JJ Wigs’ Jess & Jo. Under the movement direction of Chi-San Howard, this is a razor-sharp, atmospheric reimagining of one of the most iconic crime stories ever written.
Double Indemnity runs in Liverpool from Tuesday 14 to Saturday 18 April. Tickets are priced from £17 to £47 and are available at www.everymanplayhouse.com/event/double-indemnity/
Categories: 2026 | Theatre & Performance
