Hollywood star Mischa Barton makes her UK stage debut as the ultimate femme fatale in Double Indemnity
A darkly compelling new stage adaptation of one of the greatest crime novels of the 20th century, Double Indemnity, written by James M. Cain will tour the UK & Ireland in 2026.
The story that inspired Billy Wilder’s legendary film noir masterpiece opens at Eastbourne’s Devonshire Park Theatre on 5 February and then travels to cities and towns in the UK and Ireland until May.
Mischa Barton said: “I am absolutely thrilled to be returning to the stage and making my UK theatre debut in ‘Double Indemnity’. This classic film noir favourite is a gripping tale of deceit, tension, and suspense and I cannot wait to step into the role of Phyllis and share her with audiences across the UK and Ireland for the first time.”
Set in Los Angeles during the 1930s, amidst the wreckage of the Great Depression, Double Indemnity follows Walter Huff, a sharp-eyed insurance salesman who 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 is drawn into a web of lust, greed, and betrayal.
Together, they plot the perfect crime: murder the husband, cash in the policy, and vanish into the Californian sunset. But passion clouds judgment and guilt corrodes even the most perfect of plans. As their conspiracy unravels and mistrust festers, Walter and Phyllis find themselves battling not only the law, but each other.
James M. Cain’s thrillingly amoral masterpiece of murder, deceit, and desire is adapted for the stage by Tom Holloway and directed by Oscar Toeman, promising a razor-sharp, atmospheric reimagining of one of the most iconic crime stories ever written. Further casting will be announced soon.
Double Indemnity brings together the glamour and danger of old Hollywood with the tension and allure of classic noir storytelling. A must-see event that will immerse audiences in a world of danger, desire and double-crossing hearts.
DOUBLE INDEMNITY – UK & IRELAND TOUR
5 – 7 February
EASTBOURNE DEVONSHIRE PARK
10 – 14 February
NOTTINGHAM THEATRE ROYAL
17 – 21 February
CREWE LYCEUM THEATRE
3 – 7 March
RICHMOND THEATRE
10 – 14 March
THEATRE ROYAL BRIGHTON
24 – 28 March
DUBLIN GAIETY
31 March – 4 April
SOUTHEND PALACE THEATRE
7 – 11 April
WYCOMBE SWAN THEATRE
21 – 25 April
CHURCHILL THEATRE BROMLEY
28 April – 2 May
MANCHESTER OPERA HOUSE
5 – 9 May
CARDIFF NEW THEATRE
Who is Mischa Barton?
Mischa Barton is a versatile actress with a passion for storytelling and an impressive career spanning over two decades. Working with such acclaimed directors and writers such as Richard Attenborough, Roland Joffé, M. Night Shyamalan, James Lapine and Naomi Wallace. Known for her magnetic on-screen presence and natural acting abilities which have captivated audiences around the world, earning her a reputation as one of the most talented performers of her generation.
Born in London, England, Barton quickly made her mark in the entertainment industry with her debut film role in “Lawn Dogs” (1997). From there, she continued to showcase her versatility in a variety of film and television projects, including the hit supernatural thriller “The Sixth Sense” (1999) and the critically acclaimed drama series “Once and Again” (2002-2003).
However, it was her iconic role as Marissa Cooper in the hit television series “The O.C.” (2003-2006) that truly launched Barton to superstardom. Her portrayal of the troubled, yet loveable character resonated with audiences worldwide, cementing her place as a pop culture icon and earning her widespread critical acclaim with critics praising her nuanced portrayal of a complex character.
She has appeared in several stage productions throughout her career, including the acclaimed productions of “Where the Truth Lies,” “Twelve Dreams,” and “One Flea Spare.” Her performances were praised for their depth, nuance, and emotional range, demonstrating her versatility as an actress.
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