GLORIOUS! opens tonight at Hope Mill Theatre, Manchester, following previews that began on 27 February 2025. This production stars Wendi Peters (Coronation Street) as Florence Foster Jenkins and Charlie Hiscock (Ted Lasso) as Cosme Moon. The cast also includes Anita Booth (Fatal Attraction, Ambassador Theatre Group) as Dorothy, Maria, and Mrs Verrinder-Gedge, Ella Maria Danson (Showtune, Union Theatre) as cover Florence and other female roles, and George Miller (Some Masterchef Sht, 53Two*) as cover Cosme.
Nominated for Best New Comedy at the 2006 Olivier Awards, GLORIOUS! tells the true story of American socialite Florence Foster Jenkins, dubbed ‘the worst singer in the world’. Known for her flamboyant costumes, enigmatic performances, and decidedly off-key voice, Florence’s journey is both humorous and heartwarming.
The show follows Florence as she prepares for her concerts, builds an unlikely friendship with her accompanist Cosme McMoon, and pursues her passion despite all odds. Initially bewildered by her lack of talent, Cosme is gradually won over by her indomitable spirit. Florence’s recitals gained a devoted following in 1940s New York, including admirers like Enrico Caruso and Cole Porter, culminating in a sold-out show at Carnegie Hall where she performed Mozart in angel wings and a halo.
GLORIOUS! is written by Olivier and Tony-nominated Peter Quilter and directed by Kirk Jameson, with musical supervision by Nick Barstow. The creative team includes set & costume design by Ingrid Hu, casting by Harry Blumenau CDG CDA, lighting design by Mike Robertson, sound design & assistant musical supervision by Mark Goggins, Italian translation & dialect coaching by Judith Blazer, costume supervision by Lorraine Parry, wig design by Helen Keane, and artwork by FEAST Creative.
Produced by Hope Mill Theatre and Thomas Hopkins & Jana Robbins, GLORIOUS! promises to be a delightful and entertaining experience.
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
