Barnum

Once again I was delighted to be invited to see High Greens production of Barnum, a story based around the life and times of P T Barnum, set in the mid-1800s , a man fueled with ambition to succeed at all costs , a man full of ‘Humbug’ with a vision sometimes of the almost impossible, but driven regardless. The modern-day circus and all that preceded has much to thank Barnum and then Barnum and Bailey Circus for.

High Green maintain such a feeling of family ethos so refreshing when some other societies are more and more reliant on performers moving from show to show, and society to society. On stage, off stage, young and not so young are encouraged to be involved with full families contributing to the continued strength of High Green. Like many productions this has had its ups and downs but full credit goes to Rachel Marshall who almost single handedly produced directed and choreographed the show. Her vision and direction shone through with cleverly devised movement, excellent stage presence from the actors during the many scenes and a cast that thoroughly enjoyed performing this feel good production. The set was draped to the rear with cloths of many colours, giving a real circus feel, a simple raised section and a series of decorated stage boxes, simply and efficiently moved by the ever willing cast who remained in keeping with the production at all times. Chris Smith along with her mini orchestra played really well throughout and Chris should be delighted with the quality of the singing from solos to duets, groups to full ensemble.  Barnum the musical has many small cameo parts for actors to perform and whilst totally necessary, the musical is so reliant on a performer who can be on stage for most of the production, deliver volumes of words along with an array of songs and in Jonney Glaves as P T Barnum you had just that. A wonderfully executed part, showing your many performance skills, scenes with your wife Chairy, in the interactions with the varying characters within your emporium and group chorus alike. Singing and performance through song was of the highest order, I particularly enjoyed Colours of Your Life and The Prince of Humbug. Your final scenes with Chairy were very moving. Chairy Barnum by Lyndsay Lindley gave a powerful portrayal of a supportive wife whilst her husband, Barnum, perpetually let you down, almost choosing what he thought was better, until realizing and you waiting that your love for each other was forever. Some memorable scenes, lovely acting and excellent singing. Ben Shipman as The Ring Master, what a great performance, you were like a jack in a box, popping up here and there moving the production along with excellent delivery, clear diction, great singing and managing to double up into other roles including the moving final scenes as Mr. Bailey with Barnum. As mentioned, there are a number of cameos including Laua Hall as Joyce Heth well performed and sung with lots of comic movement, Sandra Graham-Levers as Jenny Lind, a well-disciplined part with the comic misunderstanding of her English and the song delivery, almost catching your man but realizing Barnum’s true love was Chairy. Ava-Beau Quince as Amos Scudder, some well delivered lines acted very well. Your scene with Barnum informing him of the fire was beautifully delivered along with excellent timing when saying in reply to Barnum about ‘Humbug’, sorry ‘ You never taught me how ‘well done. Lylah Gregory as Tom Thumb, a lovely cameo, sung and performed well, interspersed with gymnastic skills well done. Gracie Lisle as the Concert Master another well delivered role, full of character and clarity. Carpenter Lockwood as The Blues Singer fronting the Black and White section with excellent singing and dancing whilst leading the whole ensemble in this memorable piece of theatre. Other roles by Libby Rawson, Eleanor Moore, Thomas Marshall, Rachel Marshall, Drew Edwards, Eliza Lambert, Becki Gregory, Lilly Blacker and Harper Glaves performed well remaining in character and showing boundless enthusiasm throughout.

The costumes were well thought out along with lighting that worked well with varying scenes.

The colours in Join the Circus , Come Join the Band and Black and White perfect for those numbers, whilst simplistic at other times worked really well.. 

I enjoyed the ensemble and cast not only using the stage but also making full use of involving the audience by dancing and performing in and around the aisles. Thank you to the production team for the clear encouragement given to some of the young cast in performing roles with ease poise and clarity, not always easy without mics but clearly heard and performed well. 

If I have missed anyone I apologise but did my best from the picture board. 

Please support this great inclusive theatre company with their production of Barnum the Circus Musical. An evening of fun, intrigue, love and sadness, filed with memorable foot tapping numbers and an abundance of smiley faces

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