Quentin Tarantino’s ‘The Popinjay Cavalier’ Heads to London’s West End

Quentin Tarantino is set to make his debut as a playwright with “The Popinjay Cavalier,” a swashbuckling comedy slated to open in London’s West End in early 2027. The production marks a new chapter for the acclaimed filmmaker, known for iconic films like Pulp Fiction, Inglourious Basterds and Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood.

A Swashbuckling Comedy Takes Shape

Described as a “rambunctious comedy of deception and disguise,” “The Popinjay Cavalier” is inspired by grand swashbuckling epics of both stage and screen. Sonia Friedman Productions and Sony Pictures Entertainment are producing the play, which is set in 1830s Europe. The production is being hailed as a “sweeping celebration of theatre and its heightened romance, told with Tarantino’s signature style and unmistakable wit.”

From Film to Stage

While primarily celebrated for his work in film, Tarantino has previously explored theatrical ventures. In 1998, he starred in the Broadway revival of Wait Until Dark. He had also considered adapting several of his films – including The Hateful Eight, Reservoir Dogs, and Once Upon a Time in Hollywood – for the stage, with a potential West End debut for the latter .

Production Details and Future Plans

Details regarding the specific theatre, casting, and the full creative team are yet to be announced. However, priority booking is already available on The Popinjay Cavalier website. Tarantino revealed that if the stage production is successful, he might adapt it into his tenth and final film .

Recent Controversy

The announcement of “The Popinjay Cavalier” comes amidst a recent public discussion regarding Tarantino’s use of the N-word in his screenplay for Pulp Fiction, following criticism from Rosanna Arquette .