Glorious!

All photos by Chris Davis.

Review by Catherine Larner.

What a tonic! A sumptuous set, beautiful costumes, compelling characterisation, laughter, generosity and a message of joy and positivity.

For two hours we sat rapt, embraced by the world of Florence Foster Jenkins, the New York socialite considered ‘the worst opera singer in the world’.

And who would have thought that listening to bad singing (and a discordant and grating speaking voice) could be so entertaining. But Wendi Peters embodied Foster Jenkins with great aplomb, capturing the warmth and vulnerability of the character as skilfully as the brash confidence.

We were immersed in 1940s America as Florence engages her new pianist Cosme McMoon (sensitively and engagingly played by Matthew James Morrison) as she prepares for what come to be her final performances. Their relationship feels authentic, touching and meaningful, as is the message of the play overall, in living life to the full with conviction and determination.

This was such an accomplished production.

It had all the intimacy that we enjoy at the New Wolsey, while also providing a spectacle of talent and excellence, with glorious colours and fabrics, faultless lighting and sound, and masterful acting.

The time flew by in what was a perfectly paced production, and the comedic elements were executed flawlessly and to great effect. Supporting roles by Caroline Gruber and Sioned Jones were charming.

And Wendi Peters was tremendous. Though there were the tiniest hints of Hyacinth Bouquet initially, we soon embraced Foster Jenkins in her own right and were swept up in her mesmerising and exuberant presence. How Peters keeps such a strong voice, when it must be under such strain in this performance, is extraordinary. Her (bad) singing was fantastic! Despite hitting all the wrong notes, her musical renditions were beautiful. We all clapped and cheered enthusiastically and appreciatively with each one.

This production was as ebullient as the character of Florence Foster Jenkins herself.

It was full of warmth and joy, and a generosity of spirit. Glorious!

Glorious! is at New Wolsey Theatre in Ipswich until 7 March 2026.

FOR SHOW DETAILS AND BOOKING LINK, CLICK HERE