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The 1991 film followed two best friends (played by Susan Sarandon and Geena Davis) who flee across the American Southwest after a violent encounter at a roadside bar. What began as a feminist road-trip drama quickly became a landmark text, sparking widespread debate around violence against women, self-defence, and female autonomy. Khouri won an Academy Award for her original screenplay.
The stage version will star Rachel Tucker and Amy Lennox in the title roles, with direction from Trip Cullman, whose previous credits include the Broadway revival of Torch Song. Producers Sonia Friedman and Imogen Brodie describe the project as a reimagining for the live experience. In a statement, the producers add: “Astonishingly, nearly 35 years later, we find ourselves in a world where female, indeed all, human rights are under serious threat, making this story feel not only relevant but necessary. At its heart, it speaks to freedom, solidarity, friendship and the ongoing fight for equality.”
Khouri, who is actively involved in the stage adaptation, said she was “thrilled” to be collaborating with the Young Vic and the wider creative team. “It’s still a wild and emotional ride made even better by the contribution of the enormous talents of Neko Case, Trip Cullman and our amazing creative team,” she says. “I can’t wait for audiences to experience this timely retelling.”
The production will mark her first major theatre score for Case, known for her work with The New Pornographers and as a seminal solo alt-country artist.
Thelma & Louise: A New Musical will run from 3 September to 24 October and opens the Young Vic’s 2026/27 season, which also includes the English-language premiere of Eurotrash, reuniting Black Doves stars Ben Whishaw and Kathryn Hunter.
English (US) · 