THE shrill, screeching voice of an appalling singer will ring around Malvern Theatres this month.

Actress Maureen Lipman plays Florence Foster Jenkins in Glorious!, the true story of an American singer who insisted on performing concerts, although she could not hit a single note.

Maureen had to learn to sing badly, yet protect her voice, after taking on the role.

"When the audience laughs my tendency as a human being is to go further and further. I have to stop myself," she said.

Set in 1940s New York, the play follows enthusiastic but tone deaf soprano Florence through performances at recitals and balls, recording sessions and a sell out triumph at Carnegie Hall.

Glorious! is a new play, which opened in Birmingham last week. Maureen said some of the rehearsals had been challenging as constant cuts and changes were being made.

But she is looking forward to Malvern Theatres audiences seeing the show.

"I don't think I've been in a play where there have been so many laughs," she said.

"If you want to be taken out of yourself and see a character completely larger than life and a stage full of eccentrics, I would start booking now."

Glorious! plays at Malvern Theatres from Monday, September 26, until Saturday, October 1. Tickets are £18 to £26 on 01684 892277.