Glorious!
The true story of Florence Foster Jenkins, the worst singer in the worldby Peter Quilter
Directed by
VALERIE RUSSELL
Meryl Streep and Hugh Grant starred in the 2016 comedy movie Florence Foster Jenkins, which popularized this unusual true story about a socialite with a big heart and a terrible singing voice.
In 1940s New York, Foster Jenkins warbled and screeched her way through many charity recitals. This delusional and joyously happy woman paid little attention to her critics; instead, she was surrounded by a circle of devoted friends who were almost as eccentric as she was.
You will laugh and be moved by this funny and heart-warming story of relentless passion.
Important Show Info
Strong language warning - for Spanish speaking patrons, please be advised that the character of Maria uses strong language that some patrons may find offensive.
Friday, April 19 - 5:30pm dinner, 7:30pm show
Saturday, April 20 - 5:30pm dinner, 7:30pm show
Sunday, April 21 - 5:00pm dinner, 7:00pm show
Friday, April 26 - 5:30pm dinner, 7:30pm show
Saturday, April 27 - 5:30pm dinner, 7:30pm show
Sunday, April 28 - 5:00pm dinner, 7:00pm show
Friday, May 3 - 5:30pm dinner, 7:30pm show
Saturday, May 4 - 5:30pm dinner, 7:30pm show
Sunday, May 5 - 5:00pm dinner, 7:00pm show
2023-2024 Season Sponsors
Cast & Production Team
Jack Boyagian
Allena Godfrey
Valerie Russell
Tim Russell
Kara Besson
Krystyne Gillespie
Lauren Page Russell
Jennie Ryan
Tim Russell
Victor Svenningson
Sharon Anderson
Elizabeth Payne
Frank Burns
Claire Rowett
Estelle Cortesis
Madaleine Nelson
Marie Anderson
Alina Adjemian
Glenis Bernie
Lucy Caldwell
Mary Schultz
Brenda Scott
Jack Boyagian
Victor Svenningson
Lauren Page Russell
Producer
Director
Assistant Director
Stage Manager
Assistant Stage Manager
Set Designer
Set Dresser
Lighting Design
Sound Design
Costume Design
Props Master
Lead Builder
Lead Painter
Headwear
Hair & Make Up
Vocal Coach
Choreography
Backstage Crew
Music Recordings
Lighting Operator
Sound Set Up & Operator
Graphic Design & Program
Reviews
Kristin Andrews, Northumberland NewsOriginally published in Northumberland News
“Glorious!: The True Story of Florence Foster Jenkins, the Worst Singer in the World” is the Northumberland Players’ latest instalment of dinner theatre playing at the Best Western in Cobourg.
Written by Peter Quilter, produced by Jack Boyagian and Allena Godfrey and directed by Valerie Russell, “Glorious!” is the charming true story of an eccentric socialite who loved to sing and perform for the high society members of New York City, including composers, musicians and accomplished artists.
Her joy and passion for singing made up for the fact that she seriously couldn’t carry a tune.
As Valerie Russell says in her director’s note, “Who knows why she thought she could sing well? Some reports suggest it was partially due to the arsenic and mercury used to treat her syphilis. Others say that it was all a show for her, and she just decided she would use her wealth to do whatever she wanted. Some suspect an obscure mental disorder. No one really knows, and really why should we care? She did it with verve! And such joy!”
Florence Foster Jenkins is brought to life by Carol Beauchamp, who does a wonderful job of tapping into Jenkins’ eccentric yet sweet personality. Beauchamp’s comedic timing and off-tune singing is completely endearing. We should cringe at Jenkins’ singing ability, but I couldn’t help but feel admiration instead.
Jenkins’ companion and manager St. Clair Bayfield (Henry Hawkes) and her friend and biggest supporter Dorothy (Kim Brouwer) help Jenkins plan and prepare for a show at Carnegie Hall. The only one who seems aware of Jenkins’ off-tune singing is her newly recruited accompanist Cosmé McMoon (Jake Lauder), who soon becomes another one of Jenkins’ cheerleaders.
Like birds of a feather, each character is as quirky, eccentric and slightly aloof as Jenkins. Keep an eye out for Maria (Kim Marie Chow) and Mrs. Verrinder-Gedge (Claire Rowett), the only two people who may not be charmed by Jenkins.
The costumes for this period piece are wonderful and the set takes you back to 1940s New York City, with clever transitions bringing the audience to Carnegie Hall. It’s impossible to mention all the wonderful volunteers who make each and every show come together, but your efforts do not go unnoticed — bravo, everyone!
This show had me singing in the shower all weekend long.
Best Western Plus Cobourg
Location
The Best Western Plus Cobourg Inn & Convention Centre is located at the corner of Burnham/William St. and Elgin St.
Address
930 Burnham St.
Cobourg, ON
K9A 2X9
DINNER THEATRE
Dinner is served 2 hours prior to the start of the performance (5:30pm for 7:30pm shows; 5pm for 7pm shows). Enjoy a 3-course plated dinner, served at your table.