Review: A spectacular night under the big top

This week, the Palace Theatre has been transformed into a dazzling circus spectacular as Barnum the Musical rolled into town - and what a show it was.

From the moment the curtain rose, the energy was electric. The acrobatics were nothing short of jaw-dropping, at times there was so much happening on stage that you genuinely didn’t know where to look. Every corner of the theatre felt alive, with colour, movement and breath-taking skill combining to create a true circus atmosphere.

At the heart of the show was Lee Mead as P.T. Barnum, delivering a charismatic and commanding performance. Mead captured Barnum’s ambition, charm and showmanship perfectly, holding the audience in the palm of his hand throughout. His vocals were powerful and polished, bringing warmth and depth to every number.

Opposite him, Monique Young shone as Charity Barnum. Her performance brought heart and emotional balance to the spectacle, with beautifully delivered vocals that resonated across the theatre. The chemistry between the two leads added a strong emotional core to the larger-than-life production.

The entire cast deserves enormous praise. Every ensemble member committed fully to the performance, whether executing intricate choreography or delivering soaring harmonies. The singing was exceptional across the board, filling the Palace Theatre with rich, rousing sound.

Choreographed by Oti Mabuse, the production moved with precision and flair. Mabuse’s choreography blended traditional musical theatre with circus-inspired movement, creating sequences that were both dynamic and visually stunning.

The stage design was another triumph. Bright, bold and brimming with theatrical magic, it perfectly captured the spirit of the circus. From elaborate costumes to cleverly designed set pieces, the visual storytelling transported the audience straight under the big top.

It’s clear to see why The Greatest Showman was inspired by this iconic stage musical. Watching Barnum, you can recognise the foundations of that much-loved film, the celebration of spectacle, ambition and showmanship, yet this production stands proudly in its own right, with perfectly written songs that have timeless appeal.

Perhaps most telling of all was the reaction from the audience. From young children wide-eyed at the acrobatics to older theatregoers soaking in the nostalgia, every generation was captivated. Laughter, applause and standing ovations proved that Barnum the Musical remains a show for all ages.

If you’re looking for an evening packed with spectacle, heart and show-stopping performances, Barnum at the Palace Theatre is not to be missed. Step right up, the circus is in town, and it’s spectacular. 

Barnum is on at the Palace Theatre, Manchester until Saturday 14th February.