Long before Hugh Jackman sang about the “Greatest Showman” on the silver screen, Cy Coleman, Michael Stewart, and Mark Bramble’s 1980 musical Barnum set the standard for bringing Phineas Taylor Barnum’s high-wire life to the stage. Originally brought to life by Jim Dale on Broadway and famously performed by Michael Crawford in the West End, this classic revival—a Bill Kenwright Ltd presentation of the Watermill Theatre production—pitches its big top at Curve Leicester.
Directed by Jonathan O’Boyle with high-energy choreography from Oti Mabuse, the production features an impressive ensemble of over 20 actor-musicians, acrobats, and circus performers. Taking over the lead role for the second leg of the UK tour, Matt Rawle steps into the ringmaster’s red jacket as P.T. Barnum, bringing charm, ambition, and physical bravery to the legendary figure.
High-Flying Spectacle and Infectious Energy
At its heart, this production is a visual feast. O’Boyle and Mabuse seamlessly weave circus tricks, acrobatics, and dance into the narrative, creating a production that rarely stays grounded.
The score, packed with old-school musical theatre hooks and brassy circus rhythms, sounds robust and dynamic. Memorable anthems like “Come Follow the Band”, “There’s a Sucker Born Ev’ry Minute”, and “Join the Circus” land with infectious energy, balanced by quieter, tender moments like “Love Makes Such Fools of Us All”.
A standout element of the production is its use of actor-musicians. Rather than sitting in a pit, the performers weave brass, woodwind, and rhythm instruments directly into the staging, turning musical numbers into vibrant, multi-layered set pieces.
Strong Performances Across the Ring
Matt Rawle carries the show with style, balancing Barnum’s cheeky, manipulative hustler tendencies with genuine warmth. He tackles the show’s demanding physical requirements—including the famous tightrope walk—with confidence and handles Coleman’s complex lyricism effortlessly.
Alongside Rawle, Monique Young provides a grounded emotional core as Barnum’s sensible, steadfast wife, Charity. Penny Ashmore delivers stunning operatic vocals as the “Swedish Nightingale” Jenny Lind, while Fergus Rattigan turns in a memorable performance as General Tom Thumb. Dominique Planter also stands out as Joice Heth, bringing soulful vocals, humor, and personality to the role.
While the named leads shine, the true stars of the production are the ensemble. Shifting seamlessly between playing instruments, dancing, acting, and executing genuine circus skills, their relentless energy keeps the show alive.
The Verdict
While Barnum occasionally trades narrative depth for theatrical flair, Jonathan O’Boyle’s revival succeeds by leaning heavily into what the show does best: pure, unadulterated entertainment. Powered by Coleman’s timeless score and an extraordinarily talented cast, it offers a thrilling night of classic musical theatre craft.
Get your tickets now: https://www.curveonline.co.uk/whats-on/shows/barnum/ and don’t miss Charlie and The Chocolate Factory, on sale NOW…