REVIEW: Double Double - Barn Theatre

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Double Double written by Roger Rees and Rick Elice, is currently being revived at Barn Theatre and is the psychological thriller which will get everyone talking.

Directed by Ryan McBryde, the show stars Faye Brookes and Daniel Brocklebank, and follows the story of Phillipa James, who’s husband Richard dies prior to the birthday that the terms of his inheritance required him to be alive and married. As Phillipa struggles with her grief, she hatches a plan: find someone who can falsely take on Richard’s identity and split the money between them. Question is, can she convince Duncan (Richard’s doppelgänger) to go along with the lie? 

The show’s opening scene which takes place in Phillipa’s stylish, modern apartment, sets the scene perfectly for this powerful two-hander. As Duncan (Daniel Brocklebank) comes on the scene, it’s here when the anticipated drama begins. 

Watching the production play out, it has an intensity that keeps the audience hooked, this is largely due to the masterclass acting from both Brookes and Brocklebank. I particularly enjoyed the clever and sometimes comical script by Elice and Rees, which excels in breaking up the more dark and complex storytelling. 

Daniel Brocklebank’s brilliant portrayal of Duncan is ingenious, especially the broad Scots accent which got a few laughs and was carried off perfectly. Faye Brookes mesmerising and sinister portrayal of Phillipa is formidable. Acting alongside Brocklebank both of their performances are completely awe-inspiring, as the two actors are pretty much on stage for the entirety of the show with more time on than off. 

The production works well in the intricate Barn Theatre space, with Ethan Cheek’s rustic, homely set design. This compliments Jonathan Chan’s ambient lighting design and Cheek’s vibrant, compelling costume design. Mark Melville’s sound design is compelling, as the twist of events unfold throughout. 

I throughly enjoyed this production, from witty psychological drama to thinking on your toes until the shows climax. It’s a definite must see production for anyone. 

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Double Double is playing at the Barn Theatre in Cirencester until the 30th May, with more information at barntheatre.org.uk