Broadway hit Barnum returns to Melbourne for a run at the Comedy Theatre. Following the life of showman and politician P.T. Barnum, the show has been reimagined for Australia by director Tyran Parke, who brings the magic and awe of the circus to the stage. MEL Live were fortunate enough to catch the show on the opening night and are keen to tell you all about it.
P.T. Barnum is brought to life by Todd McKenney himself, who is easily one of Australia’s greatest showmen. McKenney’s charisma and charm makes him the perfect choice for the smooth-talking Barnum, which is only supported by his cheeky improvised moments and audience interaction. A standout moment for us was his tight-rope walking scene – one that had the audience watching with bated breath, and was followed by a massive applause. His unique brand of humour shone through each line, only backing up his portrayal of Barnum as a bit of a dodgy salesman. Special mention goes out to Todd McKenney’s one liner, as he takes to the tight-rope and yells, “Where’s Hugh Jackman when you need him?”.
Supporting the wonderful McKenney is an assortment of talent; featuring Rachel Beck as Barnum’s wife Charity, Suzie Mathers as the ‘Swedish Nightingale’ Jenny Lind, and Kirby Burgess as the Ringmaster. Beck’s portrayal of Charity Barnum was one to behold; her moments on stage were touching, as she supported her husband through thick and thin. Playing the somewhat opposite of Charity was Mathers’ take on Jenny Lind, whose operatic voice was showstopping. Wrapping up a strong female stage presence, was Burgess, who flexes her talent on stage and plays an array of characters; switching in and out of personas with ease.
Wrapping up the cast were the stars of Barnum’s show. With performances from Akina Edmonds as ‘the oldest woman alive’ Joice Heth, Joshua Reckless as General Tom Thumb, and the acrobatic talents of Embla Bishop, Robbie Curtis, Sarah Gray, Matthew Hamilton, William Meagher, Stephen McDowell, Vanessa McGregor and Karlee Misipeka, the circus troupe were complete.
Jaw-dropping was one way to describe the show’s acrobatics and choreography. Featuring stunts such as a drop from a balcony, contortionists, and an aerial silk routine, there was no skimping on the amazing acts the performers were capable of. With the audience captivated by the stunts, the music and songs perfectly captured the feelings and emotions of each character, integral to the overall plot. Some of our favourite songs included the The Colors Of My Life series and reprise, One Brick at a Time, Love Makes Such Fools Of Us All, Black and White and Join The Circus. Musical director Stephen Gray did an incredible job, as did the orchestra backing.
The show’s costume and set design is also worthy of a mention, capturing the essence of the show in the 1830’s. With a lot of thought and effort put in from the team, led by Dann Barber, the bright, bold colours and trim were rife throughout, reminiscent of the story’s period. The clever use of everyday objects as props thoroughly added to the show.
Filled with something for everyone, Barnum is a must-see musical for all ages. Prepare yourself for plenty of ‘oohs’ and ‘ahhs’ as you see this year’s greatest show! Get in quick, exclusively at Melbourne’s Comedy Theatre from April 27 2019.
Purchase your tickets from the below retailers: Barnumthemusical.com.au ticketmaster.com.au or Ph: 1300 11 10 11
Photo Credit: Jeff Busby