Barnum
Topping
Barnum, The Circus Musical
by Cy Coleman, lyrics by Michael Stewart, book by Mark Bramble
Bill Kenwright Ltd and Watermill Theatre Productions at Richmond Theatre until 27th June, then on tour until 31st October
Review by Heather Moulson
Even as Lee Mead enters on the apron, stage right, he draws us in to the world of Phineas Taylor Barnum with his straight and enigmatic introduction. Mr P T Barnum had an engaging personality, and Mead showed all of Barnum’s passion and commitment. “There is a sucker born ev’ry minute” was his motto, yet that only made him more likeable.
Then the tabs go up on a vibrant rich ground of trapeze artists, acrobats, dancers and intriguing circus performers. This is a spectacular sight, enhanced by the fast and atmospheric lighting by Jai Morjaria, although it might sometimes threaten to overwhelm, and Tom Marshall’s vibrant sound. However, the standout costumes and sets, designed by Lee Newby, ensure the setting keeps its splendour.
Mrs Charity Barnum sits in a box to observe the whole spectacle and is the best critic of all. Splendid Monique Young plays Mrs Barnum, who works tirelessly to keep her ambitious husband down to earth.
Spectacular acts are presented before us, a 160 year old woman, Joice Heth, played by monumental Dominique Planter, who sang the marvellous Thank God I’m Old. And as Barnum builds his museum, One Brick at a Time, led by Charity and the company. There are stunning trapeze artists, and a multi-instrument playing chorus with the standout ringleader, a role taken on press night by Laura Sillett, who has great stage presence.
After the tragedy of the museum burning down, the determined Barnum finds two new star attractions, General Tom Thumb, played by Fergus Rattigan, who sings the great number Biggera isn’t Bettera, and the marvellous and stand-out Jumbo the Elephant, so authentically made and convincing, created by For Significant Object.
When Penny Ashmore’s Jenny Lind, the famous Swedish opera singer, appears and beautifully sings Love Makes Such Fools of us All, we know it’s inevitable that Barnum would become infatuated. Indeed, he accompanies the singer on tour.
At the end of the first half, Mead takes on Barnum’s incredible tightrope walk, cool and collected, bringing the house down.
Act Two gains pace and momentum, and opens up to Barnum breaking off ties with Ms Lind. After an emotional reunion with Charity, Barnum vows to have a more sedate existence, hence his next number, Black and White. When his clockworks’ factory career falls flat, Barnum attempts a doomed and short political career. Then Charity passes away suddenly, leaving Barnum bereft of his soul mate.
The excellent Kevin Oliver Jones, who is also the musical director, in the role of James Bailey offers Barnum a lifeline to create a circus, which becomes the famous Barnum and Bailey Circus. There is a strong pairing in Join the Circus, with Bailey’s excellent banjo playing.
A vast and clever cast and numerous chorus are directed in great detail by Jonathan O’Boyle, and the intricate choreography is by Oti Mabuse. With its glittering and splendid finale, we find ourselves with Barnum and his performers all the way.
Barnum, The Circus Musical is a touring show, so you should follow the big top for an exciting, toe-tapping spectacle.
Heather Moulson, June 2026
Photography by Pamela Raith
Mark Aspen 