Christine Baranski and Richard E Grant on a blissful friendship, Anglophilia and onstage kissing – Hay Fever opens in the West End

Last night, director Emily Burns’ quintessentially classic revival of Noël Coward’s Hay Fever celebrated its official opening at Wyndham’s Theatre.

The production, described by WhatsOnStage lead critic Sarah Crompton as “a well-oiled clock” and “a theatrical throwback” in her review, marks the West End debut of Emmy and two-time Tony Award winner Christine Baranski and co-star Richard E Grant‘s first return to the stage in 20 years.

Taking on the roles of Judith and David Bliss, we were curious to find out what Baranski and Grant find “blissful” about each other (and you may be surprised by the answer), as well as Baranski’s status as an Anglophile and tackling a British accent.

You can watch all the opening night highlights below:

The West End cast also features Nancy Carroll as Myra Arundel, Will Close as Simon Bliss, Charles Edwards as Richard Greatham, Ophelia Lovibond as Sorel Bliss, Ash Hunter as Sandy Tyrell, Lucy Karczewski as Jackie Coryton and Jo McInnes as Clara, alongside Helena Antoniou, Charlotte Avery and Shaun Mendum.

Hay Fever follows the Bliss family, whose plans for a quiet weekend at their country house descend into chaos when each family member unknowingly invites a guest to stay at the same time.

The creative team includes set and costume designer Frankie Bradshaw, lighting designer Oliver Fenwick, sound designer Tingying Dong, fight and intimacy director Bethan Clark, dialect coach Danièle Lydon, associate director Blythe Stewart and casting directors Jim Carnahan and Liz Fraser.

Hay Fever runs at Wyndham’s Theatre until 12 December 2026, with tickets on sale now.