Hope Mill Theatre have announced that Wendi Peters (Coronation Street, ITV; Doctors, BBC) will star as Florence Foster Jenkins in GLORIOUS! The True Story of The Worst Singer in the World, which plays at the venue from 27 February-30 March 2025.

Written by Peter Quilter and directed by Kirk Jameson, GLORIOUS! tells the hilarious and heartwarming true story of Florence Foster Jenkins, a 1940s New York socialite with dreams of becoming an opera star – despite her famously dreadful singing voice. As her notoriously off-key recitals gained a devoted following (including admirers like Enrico Caruso and Cole Porter), her performances became must-see events, culminating in an unforgettable, sold-out show at Carnegie Hall, where Florence performed Mozart in angel wings and a halo.

Hope Mill Theatre’s Joseph Houston & William Whelton said: “As Hope Mill Theatre enters its 10th Anniversary year, we are thrilled to share our first in house production of our celebratory milestone year. GLORIOUS! marks Hope Mill’s 37th production in a decade, including productions at Hope Mill Theatre, on tour and transfers. It is an honour to have Wendi Peters join our already growing alumni of star performers, who have graced our stage, and in the wonderfully eccentric role of Florence Foster Jenkins, with a new production helmed by Kirk Jameson. This production marks the first in what will be an extremely exciting 2025 for Hope Mill Theatre.”

Wendi Peters said: “I’m so thrilled to be playing such a ‘glorious’ character as Florence Foster Jenkins and I know I’m going to such fun portraying her. I’m really looking forward to being back in Manchester and working at the wonderful Hope Mill Theatre.”

GLORIOUS! follows Florence’s journey as she prepares for her concerts, builds an unlikely friendship with her young accompanist, Cosme McMoon, and pursues her passion despite all odds. At first bewildered by her lack of talent, Cosme gradually grows fond of her, swept into her world of indomitable spirit. This joyful play celebrates a woman who defied critics and embraced the laughter of her audience, making her dreams come true.

GLORIOUS! is produced by Hope Mill Theatre, with casting by Harry Blumenau CDG CDA.

Tickets go on sale on Friday (22 November), with further info here.