Madeline Brewer, the Emmy-nominated actress renowned for her captivating performances, is set to grace the stage as Rose-Lynn Harlan in the U.S. premiere of *Wild Rose*. This new musical, which is a reimagining of the acclaimed 2018 film featuring Jessie Buckley, will begin previews at the New York Theatre Workshop on 24 November. The production is expected to have its official opening on 14 December, with a limited engagement running until 10 January 2027.
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The storyline of *Wild Rose* follows the journey of a spirited single mother from Glasgow, who aspires to become a country music star in Nashville. The character Rose-Lynn, portrayed by Brewer, is determined to chase her dream despite facing obstacles and societal pressures. The musical will feature a dynamic score with songs inspired by renowned country artists such as Chris Stapleton, The Chicks, and Wynonna Judd, all of which promise to bring the vibrant spirit of Nashville to the New York stage.
Brewer’s announcement comes as she builds on her impressive theatrical body of work. She made her Off-Broadway debut in 2025, playing Audrey in a revival of *Little Shop of Horrors*. Following that, she starred in her Broadway debut as the title character in Gina Gionfriddo’s *Becky Shaw*, sharing the stage with notable actors including Tony Award winners Lauren Patten and Alden Ehrenreich. With such varied experiences, Brewer is expected to bring both depth and exuberance to her portrayal of Rose-Lynn.
Written by BAFTA award-winner Nicole Taylor, who also penned the original film, *Wild Rose* portrays the internal and external struggles of a mother torn between her ambitions and her responsibilities. Upon returning to her hometown after serving time in jail, Rose-Lynn’s dreams clash with her mother’s expectation that she prioritise her two young children. While initially taking on a job as a cleaner, she unexpectedly finds an ally in her employer, Susannah, who supports her aspirations, creating a glimmer of hope for her Nashville ambitions.
The original film premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival and received widespread acclaim, showcasing Buckley’s powerful performance that garnered her a BAFTA nomination for Best Leading Actress. The film also introduced audiences to the original song “Glasgow (No Place Like Home),” which was praised and won the Critics Choice Award for Best Song. This piece, along with others, will feature prominently in the stage adaptation, celebrating the musical’s roots in contemporary country music while retaining the emotional weight of Rose-Lynn’s narrative.
The direction of this musical adaptation will be led by John Tiffany, a Tony and Olivier Award winner known for his work on productions such as *Harry Potter and the Cursed Child* and *Once*. He will be joined by Olivier-winning choreographers Steven Hoggett and Vicki Manderson, alongside music supervision from Tony winner Sarah Travis and Nadia DiGiallonardo. Their collective expertise signals a promising and visually engaging rendition of Taylor’s story.
*Wild Rose* made its world debut at Edinburgh’s Royal Lyceum Theatre in 2025, receiving enthusiastic reviews that set the stage for its upcoming U.S. presentation. The production is being brought to life through partnerships with Patrick Daly, Gavin Kalin Productions, and Barbara Broccoli, with original film producer Faye Ward contributing as an executive producer.
As anticipation builds for the U.S. premiere, tickets for the limited engagement at New York Theatre Workshop have already gone on sale, signalling heightened interest in what promises to be a poignant exploration of dreams, family, and the pursuit of passion.
Brewer’s transition from screen to stage, alongside the rich narrative of *Wild Rose*, invites theatre-goers to engage with a layered exploration of aspiration and personal growth. With its compelling storyline and talented cast, the musical is poised to leave a lasting impact on audiences during its run in New York City.