Charlie Hiscock, known for his work in film and television, including the hit series Ted Lasso, is set to make his stage debut in the heartwarming comedy Glorious at Manchester’s Hope Mill Theatre. In this exclusive interview, Hiscock shares his excitement about treading the boards for the first time, working alongside West End veteran Wendi Peters, and bringing the true story of Florence Foster Jenkins and her pianist Cosmé McMoon to life.
Charlie’s journey to the stage began in childhood, as he recalls, “I started acting as a child really when I was eight years old in school productions and stuff. And it was my headmaster that suggested to my parents that I attended the nearby drama school.” This early start led to his first screen role in the BAFTA-nominated children’s comedy Combat Kids in 2010, setting the stage for a career that would eventually bring him to the theatre.
When asked about Glorious, Charlie enthusiastically describes it as “a heartfelt, wacky comedy, obviously set in the 1940s.” He emphasises the show’s uplifting message, stating, “If you do have a dream or you have a goal that you want to pursue, go for it, no matter the stakes, no matter who’s hating on you, who dislikes your approach to anything.”
The True Story Behind the Play
The play tells the true story of Florence Foster Jenkins, famously known as “the worst singer in the world,” and her pianist, Cosmé McMoon. Charlie draws an amusing parallel, saying, “It’s like what Eddie the Eagle is to skiing, that Florence Foster Jenkins is to singing.” He adds, “You just can’t help but root for the lead characters.”
In Glorious, Charlie takes on the role of Cosmé McMoon, a character he describes with evident fondness: “I describe him as a wacky, charismatic individual who’s got a glass wall up that’s hiding a very vulnerable boy.” Hiscock notes the challenges McMoon faced in the 1940s, particularly regarding his sexuality, explaining, “He had to have this charisma, this wit about him. It almost is like a protection barrier for him.”
Preparing for the role of a pianist has been an exciting challenge for Charlie. “I’ve been lucky enough to learn the correct piano technique for this show,” he shares. “I’m learning the correct technique of how to play piano without learning how to play the piano, which is just so incredible.” The actor, who plays guitar, finds the experience particularly intriguing: “It’s such a backwards approach, because obviously with piano, you’ve got to outstretch your fingers, whereas with guitar, you’ve got to keep them all close, knit together to reach the right chords.”
Working with West End Star Wendi Peters
Working alongside Wendi Peters has been a highlight for Charlie in his stage debut. He admits, “Obviously, going into the first day, it felt like the first day of school, almost. I was overwhelmed.” However, he quickly found his footing: “It’s just been so lovely to have a shoulder to rely on, or like someone to speak to and question.”
For Charlie, making his stage debut at Hope Mill Theatre feels particularly special. “There’s no better place where I would want to make my stage debut than back up north in Manchester at the Hope Mill Theatre, which has just already got such a prestigious name up in the north,” he says. The theatre’s welcoming atmosphere has made a strong impression on him: “Everyone’s so welcoming. I don’t know if it’s just the northern charm, but you automatically feel at home.”
As opening night approaches, Charlie admits to feeling both excitement and nerves. “Numb and petrified is definitely a couple of words,” he laughs. “But if you don’t feel that and use that, then you’re doing something wrong, clearly.” Despite the jitters, he’s confident in the show’s progress: “We have run it all the way through, multiple times, and it’s really starting to piece together.”
Charlie is particularly excited for audiences to experience the show’s emotional range. “There’s multiple occasions where you will either just be giggling away, or you’ll just be aghast, or you might feel a lump in your throat,” he teases. “So just expect the unexpected.”
For those considering buying a ticket to Glorious, Charlie says “If you do want to get away from what’s going on in the world and do just want to have like a breath of fresh air, a little laugh, and just feel no anxiety, then this is the show for you, just to really escape reality.” He concludes with a warm metaphor: “It comes in the form of a hug.”
As Charlie Hiscock prepares to take the stage in Glorious, his enthusiasm is infectious. With a talented cast, a touching true story, and the charm of Hope Mill Theatre, this production promises to be a delightful escape into the world of 1940s New York and the unlikely friendship between a tone-deaf singer and her devoted pianist.
Glorious runs at Hope Mill Theatre in Manchester 27th February to 30th March 2025.
