Lee Mead takes on one of his Greatest roles yet as he steps into the legendary shoes of P.T. Barnum.
Arriving at the Wales Millennium Centre in Cardiff, this production marks the first time the musical has toured in over a decade. The auditorium was packed with multiple generations, all sharing what felt like a truly nostalgic moment in theatre history. With songs like Come follow the band, Colours of my life and Love makes such fools of us all, the music guides you through the story of one mans’ relentless desire to create and entertain.
If you are a fan of Lee Mead, you won’t be disappointed. He is front and center for the majority of the show, delivering impeccable vocals throughout. His portrayal of Barnum is charismatic, cheeky, and bold.
As for his acrobatic skills? I definitely held my breath as he took to the high wire for a skilled tightrope walk. Combined with a sprinkling of magic tricks, he truly felt like an authentic showman ready to sell a dream to anyone willing to listen.
Monique Young brings a beautiful authenticity to the role of Charity, Barnum’s wife, whilst Fergus Ratigan is highly entertaining as General Tom Thumb. Penny Ashmore (Jenny Lind) fills the entire auditorium with her incredible operatic voice and charming humour.
While Act 1 felt a little slow at times, Act 2 steams ahead with a striking change in direction. The use of monochrome sets provided a stark juxtaposition to the traditional, colourful red circus aesthetic seen earlier. This shift added a new dimension to the characters, and the emotional weight really began to hit the audience—especially during the moving farewell scene between Barnum and Charity.
I must admit, I’m not usually a big fan of the circus, but this production offered just the right balance of tricks and storytelling. The seesaw act in particular had me watching through my fingers and gasping in awe. The elephant was also hypnotising and graceful.
It really was a wonderful evening of classic musical theatre that proves that the “Greatest Showman” still has plenty of magic left.
Tickets are still available now.
