Hollywood star Sacha Baron Cohen has been cast as the lead actor in Quentin Tarantino’s theatrical debut, The Popinjay Cavalier. The production will run at London’s historic Phoenix Theatre, with previews beginning on February 23, 2027. The official opening night is set for March 18, 2027. This production marks a major career milestone, serving as the first stage play written and directed by the Oscar-winning filmmaker. It also marks Baron Cohen’s debut performance in the West End.
The Production and Creative Team Behind The Popinjay Cavalier
Billed as a comedy of deception and disguise, The Popinjay Cavalier is set in 1830s Europe. Official synopses state that the story draws inspiration from grand swashbuckling epics. It incorporates creative influences from old Hollywood swashbuckler genres, including the writings of George Bruce, Ernst Vajda, and Jesse Lasky Jr. Sony Pictures Entertainment and Sonia Friedman Productions are co-producing the play. Sony previously distributed Tarantino’s film Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood, while Sonia Friedman Productions is renowned for West End and Broadway hits such as Harry Potter and the Cursed Child and Paddington the Musical.
Tom Rothman, chairman and CEO of Sony Pictures Entertainment’s Motion Picture Group, and Sonia Friedman issued a joint statement about the collaboration:
It is a joy and an honor to be developing this play with Quentin-and obviously quite an adventure. How lucky we are that one of the great storytellers of our time has chosen to make his theatrical debut. To see Quentin in action in a rehearsal room is extraordinary. His delight in working with actors, fencers, acrobats, musicians and our creative team is infectious.
Cast Reactions and Ticket Details
Sacha Baron Cohen shared a humorous and reverent reaction to his casting announcement. Referencing the filmmaker’s distinct style, the actor joked, “Quentin called, I said yes before he even got to say his first ‘motherf-er.’ When the best director in the world calls, you don’t ask questions. I am beyond delighted that we will be losing our West End virginity together, I have made him promise not to be gentle.”
Quentin Tarantino, 63, has frequently expressed a desire to transition to the stage after indicating plans to cap his film career at ten films. Discussing the upcoming run, Tarantino stated that he is “keen with anticipation to give the West End a great night out.”
A robust creative team joins Tarantino for the production:
- Scenic and Costume Design: Tom Pye
- Lighting Design: Natasha Chivers
- Sound Design: Ian Dickinson
- Fight Direction: Philip d’Orleans
- Action Coordination: Sam Lyon-Behan
- Music: Tim Phillips
- Casting: Jim Carnahan, CSA
Tickets for the three-month engagement run through June 13, 2027. They go on sale following priority access periods. Production organizers confirmed that pricing starts at £25, with more than 16,000 tickets across the entire run priced under £50. Further casting announcements regarding supporting roles for The Popinjay Cavalier are expected in the coming months.
Frequently Asked Questions About The Popinjay Cavalier
What is The Popinjay Cavalier about?
The Popinjay Cavalier is a comedy of deception and disguise set in 1830s Europe. It takes inspiration from classic swashbuckling epics, blending traditional theatrical romance with Quentin Tarantino’s signature style and wit.
When and where is the play running?
The play premieres at the Phoenix Theatre in London’s West End. Previews begin on February 23, 2027, with opening night set for March 18, 2027. The limited run closes on June 13, 2027.
Who is starring in the production?
Sacha Baron Cohen stars as the lead character. This production marks Baron Cohen’s professional West End stage debut.
Is this Quentin Tarantino’s first play?
Yes. The Popinjay Cavalier is the first play written for the stage by Quentin Tarantino, who will also direct the live theatrical production.
How can I buy tickets and how much do they cost?
Tickets are available via the official production website, with prices starting at £25. Producers designated that more than 16,000 tickets across the run will cost less than £50.
