The major new stage musical Wild Rose, based on the hit film starring Jessie Buckley, has bypassed a previously expected West End transfer in favour of a New York premiere.
Despite intense speculation that the production would secure a London venue following its critically acclaimed tryout at the Royal Lyceum Theatre in Edinburgh last year, producers have confirmed the show will instead open Off-Broadway at the New York Theatre Workshop (NYTW) as part of their Autumn 2026 season.
A ‘Once’ in a lifetime homecoming
The move marks a significant homecoming for director John Tiffany and co-choreographer Steven Hoggett. The pair had previously collaborated at NYTW in 2011 on the musical Once, which subsequently transferred to Broadway and won eight Tony Awards.
“Returning to New York Theatre Workshop with a new musical is incredibly meaningful to me and a homecoming in many ways,” John Tiffany said in a statement. “This is a place that champions bold work and intimate storytelling. It is the perfect fit for Wild Rose as we introduce this deeply human story about spirit and resilience.”
Wild Rose The Musical – Nicole Taylor and John Tiffany. Photo by Stuart Armitt
Life imitating art
The show’s writer and creator Nicole Taylor (One Day, Three Girls) remarked on the irony of the show’s journey from Glasgow to the US, mirroring the dreams of its protagonist.
“In a very thrilling case of life imitating art, here we are bringing the show to America,” Taylor said. “I am so delighted to be working with the great John Tiffany. I cannot wait to share this story of mothers and daughters, reality and dreams with American audiences.”
The world premiere of Wild Rose at the Royal Lyceum Edinburgh. Photos by Stuart Armitt
Autumn at NYTW
NYTW Artistic Director Patricia McGregor also expressed her excitement at welcoming the creative team back to East 4th Street.
“Fall 2026 is marked by homecomings,” McGregor noted in a statement. “It’s been 15 years since the wonderful John Tiffany and Steven Hoggett collaborated at NYTW to bring us the unforgettable Once. We are thrilled to welcome them back with Nicole Taylor’s gorgeous film-turned-musical examination of motherhood and how far we’ll go in pursuit of our dreams.”
From Glasgow to Nashville
The story of Wild Rose is centred on Rose-Lynn Harlan. Fresh out of prison and bursting with raw talent, charisma, and cheek, the free-spirited Rose-Lynn dreams of escaping Glasgow to make it as a country music singer in Nashville.
The production features a powerhouse score of songs from country music icons including Dolly Parton, Carrie Underwood, Wynonna Judd, Chris Stapleton, and The Chicks, alongside the film’s award-winning original anthem, “Glasgow (No Place Like Home).”
Plan Your Visit
- Venue: New York Theatre Workshop, New York, USA
- Dates: To be announced
- Season: Autumn 2026
- Creative Team: Directed by John Tiffany; Written by Nicole Taylor; Choreography by Steven Hoggett and Vicki Manderson
Explore the latest West End musicals currently booking in London
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