Quentin Tarantino's first play, with Sacha Baron Cohen making his professional stage debut in the title role.
Quentin Tarantino is making his stage debut with The Popinjay Cavalier, which previews at the Phoenix Theatre in the West End from 23 February 2027. It's his first play, written and directed by the filmmaker himself, and it opens officially on 18 March. The production is a global premiere, produced by Sony Pictures Entertainment and Sonia Friedman Productions.
Set in 1830s Europe, the story follows Rupert Sebastian Thomas Jr., billed as the world's greatest actor, who travels to Paris to perform at the Comédie-Française only to find his journey across the Channel taking a decidedly more dangerous turn. It draws on the grand adventure epics and sparkling romances of Hollywood's golden age, with nods to George Bruce, Ernest Vajda and Jesse Lasky Jr., and trades Tarantino's signature rapier wit for acrobatics and swordplay. Sacha Baron Cohen takes the title role of Rupert Sebastian Thomas Jr., marking his professional stage debut. He studied clowning in Paris under Philippe Gaulier and created Ali G, Borat and Brüno; when Tarantino called, he said, 'When the best director in the world calls, you don't ask questions.'
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Behind the scenes, the set and costume design are by Tom Pye and the music is by Tim Phillips. The show runs for 2 hours 40 minutes including an interval, with previews starting 23 February and the official opening night on 18 March, before running through to 13 June. There's age guidance of 14+ and trigger warnings for threat and violence.
