Mike Bartlett’s new play 'Unicorn' to premiere in West End in 2025

Unicorn will reunite James Macdonald, Mike Bartlett, and Kate Horton following their collaboration on the original production of Cock at the Royal Court in 2009.

Mike Bartlett’s new play Unicorn will premiere in the West End next year. Performances will begin on 4 February at the Garrick Theatre for a strictly limited run.

Directed by James Macdonald, Bartlett's play follows couple Polly and Nick, who seemingly have it all. But something is missing from their lives, which is needed to add that spark.

The cast will include Nicola Walker (Unforgotten, The Split), Stephen Mangan (The Split, Episodes), and Erin Doherty (Death of England: Closing Time, The Crown, Chloe).

Nicola Walker said, “Mike Bartlett’s Unicorn is that rare beast you long to see, it’s grown-up and unusual and very, very funny.”

Stephen Mangan said, “I would have needed my head examined if I’d passed up the opportunity to be involved in this play by the brilliant Mike Bartlett. It’s hilarious, provocative, intelligent and deeply moving. And it’s being directed by the peerless James Macdonald. And Erin Doherty is in it. As is my old friend and TV ex-wife Nicola Walker. It’s just an embarrassment of riches.”

Erin Doherty commented, “To get to work with Nicola Walker and Stephen Mangan is a massive moment for me. Combine that with this genius team and this brilliant play, I’m ecstatic. I can’t wait to get in the rehearsal room.”

Mike Bartlett added, “Kate Horton has championed Unicorn from the moment she read it, and I’m thrilled it will be the first play her new company produces. I’m so happy to get the chance to get to work with James Macdonald and Miriam Buether again, and with the incredible Nicola Walker, Stephen Mangan and Erin Doherty – all superb actors I’ve been a fan of for a long time.”

Unicorn will reunite Macdonald, Bartlett, and producer Kate Horton following their collaboration on the original production of Cock at the Royal Court in 2009.

The rest of the creative team includes designer Miriam Buether, lighting designer Natasha Chivers, and sound designer Ian Dickinson.

Check back for Unicorn tickets on LondonTheatre.co.uk

Photo credit: Nicola Walker, Stephen Mangan, and Erin Doherty. (Photos courtesy of production)