Food Poisoning Keeps Josh Hartnett Out Of 'RAIN MAN'

Josh Hartnett has been absent from the past four performances of 'RAIN MAN' this week due to food poisoning. 

The last time Hartnett took the stage was on Monday November 17th. The next day (Tuesday) he was taken to the hospital for intense stomach pains, and has been absent from the show ever since. 

In Hartnett's place Charlie Babbitt is being played by understudy Richard Lynson. Ticket exchanges have been offered for later dates of 'RAIN MAN,' which has a limited run to December 20, 2008.

This staged adaptation of 'RAIN MAN' is where Hollywood actor Hartnett made his professional stage debut. He plays Charlie Babbitt opposite British stage actor Adam Godley, who plays Babbitt's autistic brother Raymond. The on screen roles were played by Tom Cruise and Dustin Hoffman. The plot follows Raymond and Charlie after Raymond is released into Charlie's care, and Charlie attempts to utilize Raymond's genius in order to save his business. Together the brothers embark on a tumultuous adventure.

'RAIN MAN' is adapted by Hollywood screenwriter Dan Gordon and directed by Terry Johnson, who took over from original director David Grindley. The cast features Colin Stinton, Mary Stockley, Charles Daish and Tilly Blackwood.

Sources say that Hartnett may return to the show tomorrow night.