Barnum

Having not seen this show before we were looking forward to seeing it. I have been watching N.O.S shows for over 37 years, my first newspaper review was for their 2012 Frankenstein Show. They have evolved as all successful groups have had to do away from the traditional Rodgers and Hammerstein type of shows and embraced the challenging newer types of show.

Barnum, was an spectacular, scintillating, superb, show stopping, smorgasbord of a show; absolutely brilliant.  A visual delight assaulting the senses.

 Great, great make-up, this was applied, changed and reapplied several times per act, I commend you. So to the costumes, again, very well visually balanced, the potential to have a fussy over-coloured back drop setting would have jarred against such bright vibrant and fun costumes.

Having spoken to Director James Freeman after the show to collectively compliment his and the casts work, he's obviously passionate about theatre which is evident in his direction. Something I look for and please pass this on to your cast. They were all very much engaged in their performances, this really came across to the audience who lapped it up. Very well done!

Voices, there is a lovely clarity to Newcastle's singing, which is always well rehearsed and complete, great harmonies and the leads were excellent. They have a well respected heritage for it.

The whole cast worked extremely hard on this show which showed in spades. The physical challenges that the circus skills brought were met very well indeed and wowed the audience; yes, I know there were a few balance issues here and there, but hey, its live, it was opening night, these things happen.

(Doffing of Top hat) Particular mention to Robert Lawton as Barnum, a very talented all round performer. This show gave him a vehicle to shine in and he did.

(Kiss of the hand) Laura Kate Harvey, as his quick witted, grounded wife Chairy Barnum was also beautifully portrayed, subtle, fiery, cunning and loving.

Music, lighting, sound, staging were all excellent, the odd radio mic noise did not distract from the ambiance created. Maybe a mute cue for the sound techs when radio mikes are swapped between actors could help eradicate this, this however is almost a universal faux pas when using radio mics with a relative simple fix.

Applause to Musical Director : Allison Fisher; Choreographer: Gareth Ridge superb

Barnum is a credit to everyone involved to it. Newcastle - I Like Your Style.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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