London’s West End is bracing for a season of "appalling manners" as Wessex Grove and Gavin Kalin Productions announce a major new revival of Noël Coward’s classic comedy, Hay Fever. The production, directed by Emily Burns, will see two-time Tony Award winner Christine Baranski and Academy Award nominee Richard E. Grant take center stage for a strictly limited run this autumn.
Performing at the historic Wyndham’s Theatre, the season will run from 22 September to 12 December 2026.
The production marks a significant milestone for both leads. Christine Baranski, beloved for her roles in The Gilded Age and The Good Wife, will finally make her West End debut as the theatrical matriarch Judith Bliss.
Opposite her, Richard E. Grant (Withnail & I, Saltburn) returns to the West End stage for the first time in 20 years to play David Bliss. Ironically, Baranski noted that it has also been exactly two decades since she last performed on stage, making this a long-awaited return for both titans of industry.
The play centers on the Bliss family—Judith, a retired actress; David, a reclusive novelist; and their two eccentric children. Bored in their country home, each family member secretly invites a guest for the weekend. The unfortunate visitors soon find themselves caught in a whirlwind of ego, dramatic outbursts, and cut-throat parlor games.
Key Dates & Ticket Information
Tickets for this star-studded revival go on sale today, Friday 17 April at 2.00pm. Given the "strictly limited" nature of the run and the star power involved, early booking is highly recommended.
Tickets On Sale: Friday 17 April, 2026 (2.00pm)
Performances Begin: 22 September 2026
Final Performance: 12 December 2026
Official Website: hayfeverplay.com
Captioned Performance 31 October 2026 (2.30pm)
Audio Described Performance 3 November 2026 (7.30pm)
Directed by Emily Burns, whose recent credits include Measure for Measure and Dear Octopus, this production promises to bring a sharp, modern edge to Coward’s 101-year-old masterpiece. Don't miss the chance to see these two icons "tear a passion to tatters" in the heart of London.
