“An extravagant, impressive and captivating celebration of circus and theatre, limited only by its storytelling.”
Previously brought to the screen by the hit film The Greatest Showman, P.T. Barnum, who produced what was known as the ‘world’s greatest show’, is having his story hit the stage once again. A controversial character turned mildly heroic by Hollywood, he is perhaps one of the greatest entertainment entrepreneurs in history – and the creator of the world’s greatest hoax. Barnum the Circus Musical retells Phineas Taylor Barnum’s story, this time slightly more factually accurate and subsequently slightly less entertaining. It is, however, a fabulous, technically impressive and flamboyant circus show that will feast your eyes.
Beginning by breaking the fourth wall and leaning into some light crowd work which he weaves throughout subtly, Matt Rawle begins his story, after being introduced in old-style circus fashion by ringmaster Eamonn Cox. As the curtain drops, the stage is lit up with an ensemble of circus acts, musicians and dancers, bringing colour and dazzling circus magic to the stage. The opening sequence sets up the show and excites the audience with the visual treat that is to come.
We continue to be amazed by the dancers and gymnasts with their impressive tricks and rhythm, most impressively by GB gymnast Emily Odunsi. They twist and contort through moving hoops, defying gravity by hanging by just each other’s foot grip at the very top of the makeshift tent. They twist and turn, sing, dance and play instruments in complete harmony, with Rawle at one point even walking the tightrope. It’s a showstopping effort, and choreographed by Oti Mabuse, we expected no less.
At its most breathtaking, two performers alternate seesaw jumps, each one higher than before, flipping effortlessly before landing on the small plank each time. It’s a classic circus trick, but mesmerising and impressive every time.
The story, however, does not feel quite as established as the musical numbers. We soon meet Barnum’s wife Charity (Monique Young), who is rational and slightly sceptical of her husband’s latest ‘humbugs’ and ideas. Young portrays this worried but devoted character well. Together they navigate Barnum’s growing popularity and newest schemes, as well as his swift infidelity with Joanna Lind, beautifully portrayed by vocalist Penny Ashmore. As they do, however, the story becomes less and less clear.
One minute Barnum seems to be a successful showman, the next they have no money for a new venue. Then his newly bought museum is burnt down and, not only does he seem completely unfazed, but it is not long before a new venue appears and the show carries on.
We are introduced to the characters Barnum takes on, including Fergus Rattigan as an excellent General Tom Thumb and Dominique Planter as the 160-year-old Joice Heth. They are highlights of the show, though their introductions are sporadic and don’t always align with the timeline of his career. Charity’s brief mention of their two children also feels like a missed opportunity, while her death is sudden and undeveloped, provoking little feeling from her otherwise devoted husband.
The set, however, is clever and immersive, perfectly imitating a circus tent and transforming Edinburgh’s Festival Theatre with show-like lights and colours. Transitions are smooth, with dancers distracting the audience with tricks as scenes change effortlessly. The entrance of a life-sized puppet elephant is a testament to the work behind the show and a genuine star moment.
The musical numbers are joyful and electric, and the singing harmonious. ‘One Brick at a Time’ and the latter part of ‘Black and White’ are standout performances, while the finale, ‘Join the Circus’, is perhaps the best of the night, leaving the audience with the goosebump-inducing, wow-factor feeling that only such a talent-stacked cast and production could elicit.
It’s a well-performed spectacular, demonstrating great talent and captivating moments – brought down only by its storyline. Matt Rawle confidently embodies the complicated P.T. Barnum, a character we aren’t necessarily supposed to like. The story may falter, but not through any fault of the cast. It’s a dazzling and extravagant spectacle, and will leave you entertained.
Catch Barnum at Festival Theatre until 10th October. Tickets are available here.