Step Right Up! Barnum Is Bringing the Circus to a Theatre Near You

If you love a musical that gives you a little bit more than singing and dancing, Barnum could be one to add to your autumn theatre list.

The classic Broadway musical is currently touring the UK and Ireland, bringing together big show tunes, circus performers, acrobatics and, yes, a spot of tightrope walking.

From August 11, Matt Rawle has returned to the role of legendary showman P.T. Barnum, following his critically acclaimed performance in the production.

He stars alongside Monique Young as Barnum’s wife Charity, Penny Ashmore as Jenny Lind, Dominique Planter as Joice Heth and Fergus Rattigan as General Tom Thumb.

What is Barnum about?

Long before The Greatest Showman had us all singing along to Hugh Jackman and Zac Efron, there was Barnum.

The musical tells the story of the ambitious and larger-than-life P.T. Barnum as he dreams, schemes and attempts to turn increasingly extravagant ideas into reality, with his wife Charity alongside him through the highs and lows.

And this isn't your standard touring musical.

The cast combines actor-musicians with acrobats and circus performers, while the score includes classic numbers Join the Circus, Colours of My Life, Come Follow the Band and Love Makes Such Fools of Us All.

There’s some serious talent behind the scenes too. The production is directed by Jonathan O’Boyle, with choreography by Strictly Come Dancing favourite Oti Mabuse and circus direction from Amy Panter.

And yes, there is a tightrope

Fans of the original British production may remember Michael Crawford famously walking a tightrope across the stage during Barnum's run at the London Palladium.

The tradition continues in this production, with its leading men quite literally stepping into Crawford's shoes and onto the wire.

Rather them than us.

Where can I see Barnum?

The tour is already underway and continues across the UK and Ireland until October 31, so there are still plenty of opportunities to catch it.

Upcoming dates include:

Cambridge Arts Theatre from August 18–22

Torquay Princess Theatre from August 25–29

Leicester Curve from September 1–5

Milton Keynes Theatre from September 8–12

Liverpool Empire from September 15–19.

Canterbury's Marlowe Theatre from September 22–26

London's New Wimbledon Theatre from September 29–October 3.

Edinburgh Festival Theatre from October 6–10

Belfast Grand Opera House from October 13–17

Eastbourne Congress Theatre from October 20–24.

Malvern Festival Theatre from October 27–31.

So, if your autumn entertainment calendar needs a little more razzle-dazzle, Barnum might just be worth running away to the circus for.

Barnum is touring the UK and Ireland until October 31, 2026.

Tickets and further information: kenwright.com