Natasha Barnes returns to London stage in Tryst

Natasha Barnes has been cast in a new production of Karoline Leach's Tryst, which opens at the Tabard Theatre in October.

Originally titled The Mysterious Mr Love, Leach's first play premiered at the Comedy Theatre in London's West End in 1997, starring Paul Nicholas and Susan Penhaligon. It opened Off-Broadway under the title Tryst in 2006.

Set in Edwardian London, the play is based on a true story and tells of serial fraudster, George Love (played by Fred Perry) and his relationship with the naïve and vulnerable Adelaide Pinchin (Barnes). Directed by Phoebe Barran, Tryst will have designs by Max Dorey, lighting by Matt Drury and sound by Dave McSeveny.

Barnes is best known for understudying Sheridan Smith in the role of Fanny Brice in the recent West End production of Funny Girl. She went on to star in the role on a recent UK tour of the show and has other theatre credits including Cinderella at the Palladium, American Idiot and Spring Awakening.

Talking about the play Barnes said: "I read, or devoured, Tryst in one sitting and knew straight away I wanted to be a part of it.

"I am a massive advocate for seeing the work of more female directors and I can’t wait to see what Phoebe will bring to the piece."

Tryst runs at the Tabard Theatre from 17 October to 5 November with previews from 12 October.