The Young Vic theatre has announced an exciting 2026/7 season, promising a diverse range of world and U.K. premieres from September through July. Artistic director and CEO Nadia Fall revealed the ambitious lineup on Thursday, which includes a highly anticipated musical adaptation of "Thelma & Louise." This new season is set to captivate audiences with renowned talent and compelling storytelling across both its Main House and Maria Studio.

What Happened?

The new season at the Young Vic kicks off with a bang. It opens with the world premiere of "Thelma & Louise" as a new musical. This production stars Rachel Tucker as Louise and Amy Lennox as Thelma. Grammy-nominated artist Neko Case has composed the original score for the musical. Callie Khouri, who wrote the original Oscar and Golden Globe-winning screenplay, has penned the book for this stage adaptation. Trip Cullman directs the show, which is a co-production with several esteemed companies. It runs from September 3 to October 24.

Following this, the Main House continues in November with the English-language premiere of "Eurotrash." This play is adapted by Colin Teevan from Christian Kracht’s internationally bestselling novel. Walter Meierjohann directs the production. It features acclaimed actors Kathryn Hunter and Ben Whishaw, who recently worked together on Netflix’s "Black Doves." They portray a son and his aging mother embarking on a chaotic Alpine road trip. This show explores a complex mother-son relationship and runs from November 13 to January 9, 2027.

The season also brings the U.K. premiere of "La Distance" in January 2027. Written and directed by Portuguese playwright Tiago Rodrigues, the play examines a father and daughter’s bond across the vastness of space. It depicts one character starting a new life on Mars as Earth deteriorates. Original cast members Adama Diop and Alison Dechamps will reprise their roles. Olivier and BAFTA Award winner debbie tucker green returns in March 2027 with the world premiere of her new play, "dissent." This work explores how ordinary people can become complicit in atrocity. The Main House slate concludes with the first U.K. staging in 20 years of August Wilson’s "Gem of the Ocean," directed by Nadia Fall herself.

The Maria Studio will host its own exciting events. It begins with the London debut of Edinburgh Fringe pop-up Shedinburgh. This immersive venue will feature over 40 shows from artists like Inua Ellams and Sara Pascoe. Inua Ellams will also headline a stand-alone "R.A.P. Party" event, honoring D’Angelo’s debut album. Later, Ewa Dina, recipient of the 2026 JMK Award, makes her Young Vic directing debut. She will revive Theresa Ikoko’s "Girls," a powerful story about three teenage friends abducted by armed insurgents. This diverse program highlights the Young Vic’s commitment to varied, impactful storytelling.

Key Highlights

The Young Vic’s 2026/7 season opens with the world premiere of "Thelma & Louise" as a new musical.
Rachel Tucker and Amy Lennox star in the title roles of "Thelma & Louise," with an original score by Neko Case.
Acclaimed actors Kathryn Hunter and Ben Whishaw will star in the English-language premiere of "Eurotrash."
The season includes the U.K. premiere of "La Distance," exploring a father and daughter’s journey to Mars.
Olivier and BAFTA Award winner debbie tucker green will debut a new play titled "dissent."
Artistic Director Nadia Fall will direct the first U.K. staging in 20 years of August Wilson’s "Gem of the Ocean."
The Maria Studio will host diverse offerings, including the London debut of Shedinburgh and a revival of "Girls."

Why Does This Matter?

This new season from the Young Vic is important for many reasons. It brings world-class theatre to London audiences, featuring both established stars and emerging talent. The inclusion of a "Thelma & Louise" musical, based on an iconic film, is a major draw. It promises to reinterpret a classic story for a new generation. Plays like "Eurotrash" offer a chance to see celebrated actors like Ben Whishaw and Kathryn Hunter on stage. These productions will deliver compelling narratives and high-quality performances, enriching the cultural landscape of the city.

Furthermore, the diverse themes and international scope of the season are highly significant. From a story about Mars colonization in "La Distance" to exploring complicity in "dissent," these productions reflect contemporary issues and global perspectives. They offer audiences a chance to engage with complex ideas and different cultures. The Young Vic's commitment to new works, U.K. premieres, and showcasing varied artistic voices ensures that theatre remains relevant and thought-provoking. This season provides a rich tapestry of human experience, promising something for every theatre-goer and sparking important conversations.