Terique Jarrett stars in the world premiere of Juniper Blood, a powerful new play by Mike Bartlett, opening this month at the Donmar Warehouse. Directed by James Macdonald, the production explores the cost of chasing ideals in a world that resists perfection.
Jarrett plays Femi, one of five characters whose lives collide in a rural setting where dreams, family, and identity clash. With a cast that includes Hattie Morahan and Nadia Parkes, this is a must-see for fans of bold, contemporary theatre.
Juniper Blood runs from 16 August to 4 October 2025 at the Donmar Warehouse. Tickets are available now.
You’re starring in Juniper Blood at the Donmar Warehouse – what can you tell us about the show?
You can expect another masterful collaboration between Mike Bartlett and James Macdonald. You may also leave each act of the play with more questions or a completely new perspective on a particular subject. And you can also expect a lot of soil (bring your wellies)!
Your character, Femi, is part of a story about ideals and disruption—how did you approach stepping into that role?
I took a lot of inspiration from my younger family members. Femi is a part of Gen Z and I find it inspiring hearing this generation talk about issues surrounding the planet’s health and our collective future.
Striving to have a stake in one’s own future is what drives Femi’s determination in this play, and he is more than comfortable with causing a little disruption!
Mike Bartlett’s writing often explores complex social dynamics. What stood out to you about this script?
Mike’s writing is very clever at throwing contradictory concepts into the mix and encouraging audiences to leave with their own perspective.
It’s intriguing to see different combinations of characters with different views have conversations because, whether you align with their views or not, they all make strong arguments for their perspective.
All of the conflicts and contradictions are what stood out to me the most when first reading the script.
The cast includes some incredible names—what has the rehearsal process been like working with this ensemble?
Every day is a school day with this cast! I’m so lucky to watch these great actors craft their characters up close; everyone is great at finding comedy, empathy, subtlety and depth in their roles.
It’s a beautiful space to continue to develop my craft and my professional practice from working with this cast.
James Macdonald is known for his bold direction—how has their vision shaped the production?
I see his boldness most in his simplicity. While we are physically in a theatrical performance, James encourages his actors to exist in the reality of the play.
I think that letting the characters have moments for and between themselves makes the story more watchable, less performative and more real.
What would you say to anyone thinking of booking to see Juniper Blood?
Be prepared to be transported to an Oxfordshire farm and challenge yourself to see things from a new perspective!
Agriculture may seem like a niche subject to many people but the play becomes really accessible through the characters’ humanity.
Also, the set design is a feast for the eyes and must be experienced in real life!
