The Popinjay Cavalier and London Theatre Breaks
Quentin Tarantino is swapping the film set for the stage. The Popinjay Cavalier, his first play as writer and director, opens at the Phoenix Theatre on 23 February 2027, with Sacha Baron Cohen in the title role. It’s a short run, currently booking only until 13 June, so if you fancy a spring break built around it, now is the time to start planning.
The official opening night is 18 March, and the play is produced by Sonia Friedman Productions and Sony Pictures.
Theatre: Phoenix Theatre, Charing Cross Road (Tottenham Court Road Tube)
Dates: 23 February to 13 June 2027
Running time: about 2 hours 40 minutes, including interval
Age guidance: 14+
Theatre breaks: not on sale yet. This page will be updated as soon as they are
What’s it about?
A rambunctious comedy of deception, disguise and heightened romance, set in 1830s Europe. Think of the grand adventure epics of old stage and screen, with plenty of wit, a celebration of theatre itself and a generous dash of that unmistakable Tarantino flair. If you like your heroes dashing, your villains devious and your plots gloriously tangled, this one has your name on it.
Rupert Sebastian Thomas Jr., the world’s greatest actor, heads to Paris to perform for the illustrious Comédie-Française. But after a few ill-advised words about the French land him in hot water, Rupert the Magnificent’s triumphant trip across the Channel takes a decidedly more dangerous turn.
The team behind it
The creative team is impressive too. Tom Pye designs the sets and costumes, Natasha Chivers handles lighting and Ian Dickinson sound, while fight director Philip d’Orleans makes sure every duel looks as thrilling as it should. Further casting is still to be announced: I will keep you posted.
Planning your break
The Phoenix Theatre sits on Charing Cross Road, right in the heart of Theatreland, so restaurants, bars and a good choice of hotels are all within easy reach of your seat.
With such a short run and a star of Sacha Baron Cohen’s calibre, The Popinjay Cavalier is likely to be one of the hottest tickets of 2027, so if you are planning a short break to London, book early. I will update this post as soon as Theatre Breaks for The Popinjay Cavalier go on sale.
Before you book
Will Sacha Baron Cohen be performing on my date?
Not at every performance. Dates he is scheduled to miss have been published, including 30 March to 4 April, 21 to 23 April, 28 April and 10 to 12 June, so check before you fix your dates if seeing him matters to you.
Where is the best place to stay?
Bloomsbury and Covent Garden are both an easy walk from the Phoenix, so you can stroll back to your hotel after the show rather than queue for a taxi. Bloomsbury tends to be a little quieter and often better value.
How do I get there by train?
From Euston, the Northern line runs direct to Tottenham Court Road, a couple of minutes’ walk from the theatre. From King’s Cross St Pancras, take the Piccadilly line to Leicester Square, then it’s a short walk up Charing Cross Road.
Is it suitable for teenagers?
The theatre recommends it for ages 14 and over, and it contains threat and violence, so it’s better suited to older teenagers than to a younger family group.