Sacha Baron Cohen to Star in Tarantino’s First Play

Sacha Baron Cohen will star in The Popinjay Cavalier, Quentin Tarantino’s first play written for the stage, which Tarantino will direct at London’s Phoenix Theatre. The production is scheduled to premiere on March 18, 2027, according to the announcement by Sony Pictures Entertainment and Sonia Friedman Productions. Set in 1830s Europe, the play is described by its producers as a comedy of deception and disguise inspired by swashbuckling stories from stage and screen. Baron Cohen’s casting marks his West End debut. The remaining cast has not yet been announced; producers have said they will disclose it later. The announcement makes the production Tarantino’s first theatrical play as a writer and director. He is best known for films including Reservoir Dogs, Pulp Fiction and Once Upon a Time ... in Hollywood. Baron Cohen is known for comic characters including Borat and Ali G. Tarantino has previously spoken about his plans to stage a play. In remarks reported from a 2025 podcast appearance, he said the work was written and would be his next project. The production announcement now names the play, its lead performer, director, venue and scheduled premiere date.