Review: Barnum The Circus Musical at The Palace Theatre

It’s always lovely to take a break from the realities of everyday life and spend a couple of hours being truly entertained at the theatre.

I’ll admit, I didn’t know much about Barnum — the man, the musical or the music that accompanies it — so I went in with an open mind and came out with warm emotions and a reflective smile.

From the moment the curtain rises, you’re transported back to the Victorian era — a distant place in time that, in many ways, feels simpler – but nevertheless, full of ambition and spectacle.

P.T. Barnum was an entrepreneur ahead of his time; a dreamer who dared to think big and brought unimaginable wonders to life. His Greatest Show on Earth captured the imagination of audiences across the world, even attracting the attention of Queen Victoria herself.

Barnum traces the rise, hopes and heartbreaks of the great showman, taking you on a rollercoaster of emotions tinged with humour, melancholy and wonder.

In this latest production, the incredible Lee Mead steps into the spotlight as P.T. Barnum, delivering a faultless and deeply convincing performance. Best known for his West End role as Joseph in Any Dream Will Do, Lee captures Barnum’s vulnerability and charm with great sensitivity.

One moment you’re dazzled by his charisma, the next you feel the ache of his loneliness. It’s a nuanced portrayal — one that balances showmanship with sincerity — and Lee’s voice is, as always, simply outstanding.

The cast around him deserves every word of praise. Each performer brings passion and energy to the stage, and though the set may appear simple at first glance, there’s an ongoing flurry of colour and movement enhanced by some spectacular acrobatics.

Monique Young is wonderful as Charity Barnum — the strong, steady force behind a man often swept away by his own dreams. And Penny Ashmore as soprano Jenny Lind quite simply captivates. Her voice — beautifully pure yet powerfully commanding — is one that lingers long after the curtain falls.

Musically, while there aren’t many instantly recognisable tunes (well, for me anyway), the score is exceptional and fits perfectly with the show’s rhythm and emotion. The live actor-musicians bring vibrant authenticity, performing on what’s said to be over 150 instruments — a joy to hear in itself.

Though Barnum touches on themes of ambition, love – and regret – it remains uplifting and full of heart.  The perfect tonic for a dark Manchester night.

As you leave the theatre, you can’t help but feel that while P.T. Barnum and his remarkable world may belong to the past, his spirit of wonder and imagination lives on.

Barnum runs at the Palace Theatre Manchester until Saturday, and it’s one not to miss.

• Tickets available from ATG Tickets

Images courtesy of Pamela Raith /Palace Theatre Manchester