Marcus Brigstocke stars as P.T. Barnum, the Greatest Showman on Earth, in this joyful and moving musical portrait of the nineteenth century’s greatest show-biz legend.

A colourful, dynamic spectacle full of circus, side-show legends and heart, Barnum tells the story of a showman who enchanted audiences by combining razzle-dazzle with charm and brass to sell “humbug” to cheering crowds. Covering the period between 1835 and 1880, the musical follows his revered performances in major cities across the world.

Take a sneak peek at the show through our rehearsal room chat with Marcus Brigstocke.

With music by Cy Coleman (Sweet Charity and The Life), lyrics by Michael Stewart (book writer of Hello Dolly! and Mack And Mabel, co-adaptor of 42nd Street), and book by Mark Bramble (co-author of 42nd Street and director of the current revival), the Tony Award-winning musical first premièred on Broadway in 1980.

Director Gordon Greenberg’s production is the first major London revival since Barnum played at the London Palladium in 1981, and fuses elements of traditional musicals with the stunning spectacle of circus – including the show’s famous tightrope-walking showstopper.

Acclaimed comedian and writer Brigstocke leads the company with Laura Pitt-Pulford (Seven Brides For Seven Brothers, Olivier Award nomination) playing Charity, Barnum’s wife. The cast also stars the likes of Tupele Dorgu (Legally Blonde) as Joice Heth, Harry Francis (Fiddler On The Roof) as Tom Thumb, and Celinde Schoenmaker (The Phantom Of The Opera, West End) as Jenny Lind.

So roll up, roll up, for the Greatest Showman on Earth – Barnum is back in London, and playing at the Menier Chocolate Factory this Winter!

Looking to see some musical theatre? Find out more about London musicals.