Florence Foster Jenkins Schubertiade Review

Florence Foster Jenkins Schubertiade Review

The Florence Foster Jenkins Schubertiade Review is NOVA’s original musical-theatrical production that reimagines the legendary socialite and self-proclaimed soprano, Florence Foster Jenkins, through a modern lens of artistry, humor, and vulnerability. Combining classical music, cabaret, and storytelling, the show celebrates the joy of fearless self-expression and the beauty found in imperfection.

Inspired by the historical “Schubertiades” — intimate salon gatherings of musicians and poets — this production invites audiences into a whimsical world where laughter, longing, and artistic chaos collide. It’s a love letter to the creative spirit: unpolished, daring, and full of heart.

Our Story

The Florence Foster Jenkins Schubertiade Review premiered at the Jersey City Theater Center in 2023, quickly earning acclaim for its inventive staging and heartfelt performances. Following its enthusiastic reception, NOVA brought the show back in 2024, once again hosted by the Jersey City Theater Center, where it played to sold-out audiences.

In 2025, the production reached new heights with a completely sold-out run and its regional debut at the Orlando International Fringe Festival in May. The festival marked the show’s transition from a beloved local performance to a touring work of original theater — bridging communities and celebrating the boundless courage of creative voices everywhere.

Critical Reception

The Florence Foster Jenkins Schubertiade Review has been praised for its wit, originality, and emotional depth. Critics have highlighted both the show’s humor and its unexpectedly tender exploration of artistic imperfection.

“A delightful, eccentric, and surprisingly moving evening of theater. Giselle Bellas channels Florence with both comedy and compassion, offering an unforgettable meditation on what it means to perform for the joy of it.”
— Tris McCall, The Jersey City Times

“In an industry that demands polished perfection, Bellas is refreshingly, almost aggressively authentic — the rare artist whose greatest strength might be her refusal to color inside the lines. Most of the things she’s done that she’s most proud of have been last-minute, chaotic. Chaos works for her. The result? Something alive, something honest.”
— Chloe Yang, Opera 360