Preview: Glorious! at Darlington Hippodrome

 

The Worst Singer in the World Takes the Stage at Darlington Hippodrome

The true story of American socialite Florence Foster Jenkins comes to life in Glorious!

Darlington Hippodrome presents Glorious! from Tuesday 12 to Saturday 16 May 2026, telling the remarkable true story of Florence Foster Jenkins, the American socialite who became known as 'the worst singer in the world.'

The production explores the life of a woman whose passion for opera was matched only by her inability to carry a tune. Despite—or perhaps because of—her notably off-key voice, Jenkins became a celebrated figure in New York society, performing in flamboyant costumes to audiences who flocked to hear her enigmatic performances.

Jenkins' story raises questions about talent, passion, and the nature of performance itself. Her complete lack of self-awareness, combined with genuine devotion to her art, made her concerts events that audiences couldn't resist, whether they came to marvel, to mock, or simply to witness something entirely unique.

The show examines the world Jenkins created around herself, one where her wealthy friends and loyal supporters maintained the illusion of her operatic gifts. It was only when she performed at Carnegie Hall in 1944, at the age of 76, that the wider public discovered what her inner circle had known for years.

Tickets:

Glorious! runs at Darlington Hippodrome from Tuesday 12 to Saturday 16 May 2026. For full details or to book visit www.darlingtonhippodrome.co.uk or call the Box Office on 01325 405405.