Sacha Baron Cohen is confirmed to star in Hollywood director Quentin Tarantino’s debut stage play, The Popinjay Cavalier, which is set to premiere at the Phoenix Theatre in London’s West End on 23 February. Tickets for the production will be available from Monday, starting at £25.
Tarantino’s Stage Debut
Quentin Tarantino, renowned for film classics such as Pulp Fiction and Reservoir Dogs, is making his first foray into stage writing and directing with The Popinjay Cavalier. The play, described as a “rambunctious comedy of deception and disguise” by the BBC, is set in 1830s Europe and draws inspiration from “the grand swashbuckling epics of stage and screen,” as well as the writings of George Bruce, Ernst Vajda, and Jesse Lasky Jr., as London Theatre reports.
The 63-year-old director expressed his anticipation for the project, stating he is “keen with anticipation to give the West End a great night out.” Tarantino has previously indicated his intention to retire from filmmaking after completing 10 films, having made nine to date. This stage production marks a significant new chapter for the two-time Oscar winner, who has won awards for writing Pulp Fiction and Django Unchained.
Sacha Baron Cohen Leads the Cast
Sacha Baron Cohen, aged 54, known for his iconic comic characters like Ali G, Borat Sagdiyev, and Brüno Gehard, will take on the title role in The Popinjay Cavalier. Baron Cohen shared his enthusiasm for the project, stating he was “beyond delighted” to work with Tarantino and adding, “When the best director in the world calls, you don’t ask questions.”
The actor has a distinguished career, having won two Baftas and three Golden Globes, alongside nominations for three Oscars and six Emmys. The full cast for The Popinjay Cavalier is expected to be announced at a later date.
Production and Creative Team
The play is being co-produced by Sony Pictures Entertainment, which distributed Tarantino’s most recent film Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood, and Sonia Friedman Productions, known for overseeing hit theatre productions such as Harry Potter and the Cursed Child.
The creative team for The Popinjay Cavalier includes Tom Pye for Scenic and Costume Design, Natasha Chivers for Lighting Design, Ian Dickinson for Sound Design, Philip d’Orleans for Fight Direction, Sam Lyon-Behan for Action Co-ordination, and Tim Phillips for Music. Tarantino, who resides in Tel Aviv with his family, has previously mentioned he would “more than likely move to England and bring my family with me” while working on the play.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does The Popinjay Cavalier open?
The play is set to premiere at the Phoenix Theatre in London’s West End on 23 February, with tickets available from Monday, starting at £25.
Who is starring in Quentin Tarantino’s new play?
Sacha Baron Cohen will star in the title role of The Popinjay Cavalier. The full cast is anticipated to be announced at a later date.
What is the genre and setting of the play?
The Popinjay Cavalier is described as a “rambunctious comedy of deception and disguise” and a “swashbuckling comedy,” set in 1830s Europe.
Who is directing The Popinjay Cavalier?
Hollywood director Quentin Tarantino is both writing and directing his debut stage play.
