Review | Barnum | Manchester Palace Theatre | 10 February 2026
- Jonathan Rawlinson
- 5 hours ago
- 2 min read
Based on the life and times of real-life showman Phineas Taylor Barnum, Barnum has been entertaining audiences since its Broadway debut back in 1980. Having enjoyed numerous revivals over the years, this production marks the musical’s first UK tour in over a decade.
Lee Mead leads the cast with irresistible charisma and confidence. Embodying P.T. Barnum he commands your attention from the second he appears on stage. In fine voice whilst playing to his strengths, he proves his position as one of UK theatres most loved leading men. He is matched perfectly by Monique Young as onstage wife Charity, helping give the show some much-needed substance. The ensemble burst with energy, combining actor-musicianship with circus performance wonderfully. They are very much the heart of the production, helping to fully immerse the audience in Barnum’s world.
Lee Newbry’s set design is particularly impressive, featuring an intricate proscenium arch that frames a big-top-inspired stage. In an era where many productions rely heavily on screens, it is refreshing to see traditional stagecraft executed so effectively. Alongside the talented cast, the production holds a lot of promise which is ultimately not capitalised on due to the material itself.
Despite its relatively short run time, the narrative wasn’t compelling enough to fully hold my attention. It is screaming out for greater character development and higher stakes to ensure audiences are fully invested. While the score may feel nostalgic for those familiar with the musical, it is largely unmemorable to fresh ears. At this point, comparisons with The Greatest Showman feel inevitable, particularly given the film’s Grammy- and Golden Globe-winning soundtrack.
Barnum still provides an enjoyable night at the theatre, but with the potential to be so much more had they delved a little deeper. It plays at Manchester Palace Theatre until Saturday 14 February 2026.
Note: My ticket was gifted in exchange for a review. This review is based on my honest opinion alone and is without influence.
