A Dark, Stylish Night at the Theatre: Double Indemnity Delivers in Liverpool

A Dark, Stylish Night at the Theatre: Double Indemnity Delivers in Liverpool

“Walking into the Liverpool Playhouse this week felt like stepping back in time. From the moment the lights dimmed, Double Indemnity pulled you straight into a world of shadows, secrets, and slow-burning tension.”

Running at the Liverpool Playhouse from Tuesday 14th to Saturday 18th April, this is a production that deserves a full house. Based on the classic by Billy Wilder, this adaptation by Tom Holloway, directed by Oscar Toeman, doesn’t try to copy the film — it finds its own rhythm, and that’s what makes it feel fresh and alive.

Mischa Barton is excellent as Phyllis Nirdlinger. She brings a quiet, controlled danger to the role — never overplayed, just enough to keep you on edge. It’s the kind of performance that draws you in without shouting for attention.

A real standout is Ciarán Owens as Walter Huff. His narration sets the tone early and carries the story with confidence, almost like he’s letting the audience in on something they shouldn’t quite know. It works brilliantly and keeps you hooked.

In the second half, Martin Marquez as Keyes really comes into his own. He gives off that classic old-school detective feel — sharp, instinctive, and always one step ahead. It adds a lovely layer of authenticity that fans of the original noir style will really appreciate.

Joseph Langdon takes on multiple roles — Nino, Mr Norton, and Joe Pete — and somehow makes each one feel completely distinct. The quick changes are seamless, and he pulls off every character with ease. The same can be said for Gillian Saker, who plays Nettie, a waitress, and a cinema usher with such smooth transitions that you genuinely forget it’s the same performer.

Sophia Roberts shines as Lola Nirdlinger, bringing warmth and depth to the role — she’s a real highlight.

The lighting and set design deserve a big mention. They create a convincing 1930s Los Angeles atmosphere without overdoing it — moody, shadowy, and at times genuinely striking. It all adds to that classic noir feel, and the full cast bring a real sense of unity to the stage throughout.