Featuring stunning acrobatics and catchy songs, Barnum is the very definition of entertainment.
Inviting audiences into the colourful and exciting world of P.T Barnum, Jonathan Boyle’s production of the musical that features music Cy Coleman and lyrics by Michael Stewart is wonderfully lively. However, it does also highlight the thinness of Mark Bramble’s book.
Barnum charts the rise of Barnum’s fame from the creation of his American museum, through the rise to fame of his travelling circus as well as his relationships with wife Charity and famous singer Jenny Lind.
There is no denying that Jonathan Boyle has created a spectacle of a show, really creatively incorporating the circus world with the story in increasingly thrilling ways (full credit to the incredible supporting cast who have to make the acrobatics work) that keeps the audience completely enthralled from start to finish. In addition, Oti Mabuse’s choreography is wonderfully playful and intricate to ensure that visually it is a real treat to witness.
There are plenty of wonderful sequences that audiences can enjoy along the way including the simply joyous ‘Come Follow the Band’, the intricately choreographed ‘One Brick at a Time’ and the introspective ‘The Prince of Humbug’ gives the show an emotional core.
Credit should also be given to Lee Newby for his wonderfully authentic set and costume designs that sweep the audience into the world of circus beautifully.
It really is a musical that is filled with two contrasting sides: the first act is filled with joy, humour and playfulness – as well as Barnum’s zest for imagination and entertainment even if Charity disapproves of the way he disillusions audiences (a lot of Barnum’s flaws so to speak are very much overlooked int he show). In contrast, the second act has more of a serious atmosphere to it as Barnum is lost in what he wants to achieve – particularly in the wake of the loss of someone close to him.
George Dyer’s orchestrations of the musical numbers are wonderfully warm, but occasionally overpower the cast – but it is wonderful to see the music performed live on stage by talented musicians.
However, it does have to be said that where the musical struggles is the building of relationships and how they change throughout the show. Yes it is interesting to see how Barnum builds his reputation and the language that he uses to describe those involved with his show is very carefully placed. But you don’t understand why he picks them or how helps to develop their acts. In addition the relationship that Barnum has with Jenny Lind feels a little bit rushed and it is difficult to understand the sudden change in his attitude to Jenny and decides to return to the forgiving Charity. There are also equal questions to be found in his relationship with Charity when it is clear that they have differing ideas about life – although songs such as ‘I Like Your Style’ showcase the endearing love and acceptance between them.
What is not in dispute is the way in which Jonathan O’Boyle brings out the best in his cast. Lee Mead as the complex Barnum has plenty of charisma to enure that the character’s inner conflict is nicely on display. He also displays great sparkle during numbers such as ‘The Colors of My Life’ and an impressive performance of the quick paces ‘Museum Song’. He also impresses on the tightrope that makes the audience catch their breath.
Meanwhile, Monique Young as the straight laced Charity, who is the conscious to Barnum’s exuberance and big dreams offers great depth to the character. Balancing the frustration of wanting a ordinary and straightforward life with Barnum while showing devotion and understanding of his dreams. Penny Ashmore offers divine vocals as Jenny Lind, with her rendition of ‘Love Makes Fools of Us All’ proving to be a real highlight of the evening, while her performance as the character shows great strength and independence.
But the whole ensemble manages to impress, whether it is playing a variety of instruments or taking part in the impressive acrobatics on display – every single cast member is used to great effect. They are a huge part of driving the story forward.
Overall, this is an entertaining musical that has been well put together for this production by Jonathan O’Boyle – the only thing that it really lacks is a strong enough book to ensure that the audience becomes thoroughly invested in the story.
Barnum continues to play at Woking Theatre until the 23rd May before continuing to tour.
Rating: ❤️❤️❤️