Barnum – The Grand, Leeds
Posted by: The Reviews Hub – Yorkshire & North East
https://www.thereviewshub.com/barnum-the-grand-leeds/
16/04/2015
Book: Mark Bramble
Music: Cy Coleman
Lyrics: Michael Stewart
4*
Mr. Phineas T Barnum has pitched up in Leeds, and now you should follow the band to the Grand to see the “greatest Show on Earth”
Brian Conley plays the title rôle of Barnum – American Showman extraordinaire. Showing off his “miracles” and acts with a hint of “humbug”, his motto is that there’s a sucker born every minute. Conley more than earns the applause that welcomes him on stage, and is perfectly cast in the rôle – acting, singing, performing magic tricks and even circus skills, including walking the tightrope.
The show introduces P.T Barnum just before he sets up his famous American Museum in New York in 1841, leading through his time in office right up to the time he meets Mr. Bailey (John Stacey) when they open their world famous circus. While Barnum introduces his most famous attractions (including a 160-year-old lady and a 25-inch man, who have great song and dance routines of their own), a ringmaster introduces the main action. This includes the dramatic unveiling of Mrs. Barnum, “the female of the species”, about to meet her husband having been kept waiting for an hour and 14 minutes … the sparky, loving wife, Chairy (Linzi Hateley) who has a few tricks of her own, including a double headed coin.
While maybe short on memorable songs, the show has some great scenes, especially those with elements of comedy. Landi Oshinowo is excellent as the 160 year old nurse of George Washington and Mikey Jay-Heath as Tom Thumb. Mention must as well go to the act with class, Jenny Lind (Kimberly Blake). The show boasts an impressive set designed by Scott Pask, great lighting designed by Paule Constable, as well as magical effects and imaginative choreography from Andrew Wright. Paul Wills’ colourful Victorian circus costumes and Linda McKnight’s wonderful wigs all add to the wonderful atmosphere and vibe of the production. Added to that, the orchestra who are elevated above the stage rather than down in the pit, really enhances the visual element to this production. Even The Grand itself is transformed with lighting to resemble the interior of the big top and before the show starts, the audience are treated to some breath-taking and hilarious performances from the versatile cast.
Cameron Mackintosh’s touring production, which was developed from the hit Chichester Festival Theatre 2013 production, is a spectacular show. It’s a gentle love story with a mix of never giving up and triumphing over adversity. By the end of the show, however, it does not really matter whether you are there for the music, the aerial work, circus tricks or the storyline; ultimately, this show oozes class and it is clear that no expense has been spared in the staging. Barnum is a fabulous show, and ideal for all the family.