Producers announced on Sunday, October 11, 2026, that Sacha Baron Cohen will star in Quentin Tarantino’s first stage play, "The Popinjay Cavalier." The production is scheduled to open at London’s Phoenix Theatre on March 18, 2027, with previews beginning on February 23. Tarantino, known for directing films such as "Pulp Fiction" and "Reservoir Dogs," wrote the play and will also serve as its director.
The project was originally announced in March 2026 as a comedy set in 1830s Europe. Tarantino previously stated on the "Church of Tarantino" podcast that the script was complete and that he expected the production to occupy between 18 months and two years of his professional life. The production is a collaboration between Sony Pictures Entertainment and Sonia Friedman Productions, the latter of which oversaw "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child."
Baron Cohen, known for creating characters such as Borat and Ali G, will make his West End debut alongside Tarantino. In a statement, Baron Cohen said he was "beyond delighted" to work with the director. The play is described in promotional materials as a comedy of "deception and disguise" that draws inspiration from historical stage and screen epics. Producers have not yet announced the remaining members of the cast.
Tarantino expects the project will require a one-and-a-half to two-year commitment, including a potential tour if the initial run is successful. Tarantino, who lives in Tel Aviv, stated he would likely relocate his family to England for the duration of the work.
The collaboration involves Sony Pictures Entertainment and stage producer Sonia Friedman. Future developments for the project include the announcement of the full cast. Rehearsals are scheduled to begin in January. Following the February previews and March opening, the success of the play will determine if a tour version is launched.
What happens next: Tickets go on sale to the general public at 12 p.m. BST on Monday, October 12, 2026. Rehearsals are scheduled to begin in January 2027. Previews will start at the Phoenix Theatre on February 23, 2027, leading to the official opening night on March 18, 2027.