Recently, I had the opportunity to see Barnum at the Watermill Theatre, and it went above and beyond my expectations. After initially seeing photos of the venue, I had no idea how they were going to put on a show that is traditionally a large spectacle spread out over a massive stage in such a small space. Naturally, I was eager to see the changes they would make, and I was even more amazed than I expected to be. The beautiful venue had been converted with balance in mind. Between the original building that functioned as a watermill and a theatre with thought through functionality. There was also an outside space to wait for the performance to start and to spend the interval in. That was not only a great space to cool down and buy drinks, but it also allowed the performers to come out prior to the show and entertain everyone with circus tricks in character. From fire eaters to a coconut shy, they had it all, creating an immersive environment, by getting everyone into the spirit of the show with a band outside playing themes from the soundtrack. Needless to say, I was impressed even before the show had started.
I feel that I have to talk about the genius of the choreography, as it was what initially drew me to the show and peaked my interest in seeing what direction this reasonably traditional musical could be taken in. This production of Barnum was choreographed by Oti Mabuse. Initially, I was surprised that she had chosen to choreograph a smaller production that, after seeing it, I could easily see touring. But this venue was perfect for this show, in my opinion. This is because most productions of Barnum create the atmosphere with set pieces on the stage, but having a smaller auditorium actually aided in allowing the set dressing to expand across the walls and the whole theatre to create an even more immersive theatre experience. The choreography only enhanced this feeling, as everything was happening in such a high-intensity and intimate environment that every emotion filled the room and kept the energy really high. The use of space by the multitalented dancers expanded the stage, making it feel empty and isolated when needed but crowded and chaotic when in the circus environment. With a cast of 18 incredibly talented individuals, the show managed to create varied performances of all the individuals that came up in the 45 years of Barnum's life covered in the show. The versatility and credits of every cast member were outstanding and I see why. They were all playing multiple instruments in the show, from harps to pianos and so much more. As well as doing circus tricks on hoops, trapezes, and a tightrope. All while singing, acting, and giving it their all. This is one of the most all-around incredible casts I have ever seen. Only enhanced by a multifaceted choreography that acted to carry the emotion of a scene or to frame its main focus while placing it in a tangible environment.
-André Rodrigues as one of the circus performer ensemble members in Barnum 2024
The cast was fantastic, and I will include the cast list and a few of their credits at the bottom so you can see what I mean. The story was conveyed impeccably when dealing with a show that looks at the difference between reality and dreams paired with time and age. Trying to suppress those hopes, it can be hard to achieve that tonality and discernible separation between what is a dream-like representation of life and its reality. Particularly in this production, I really enjoyed the classic use of colour to question whether anyone can dream regardless of age or situation. It was done in a way that, at times, was reminiscent of Mary Poppins in feeling childlike, approachable, and nostalgic. Allowing the show to tap into the emotions of the audience and take them along on a journey of wonder and spectacle. Once put in a small theatre, it feels explosive, as everywhere you turn, you are surrounded by a blend of colour, magic, and chaos.
Overall, I would highly recommend going to the Watermill Theatre in Newbury if given the chance, as it's a really interesting space and gives any production a different life and energy. They also cater to a plethora of interests, as the musicals and plays they put on are very varied. This production was outstanding and surpassed my expectations with a cast that not only knew the characters motives and presented them with clarity, but that I really hope to see later in other productions. The theatre and those working at the theatre were really helpful. The creative team on this provided a fresh and simultaneously iconic take on a classic show that was a fantastically joyful experience for everyone involved.
-one of the outside spaces at the Watermill Theatre during the interval
Cast List:
Charis Alexandra (Tina Turner the musical, The Spongebob Musical) as Scudder/ Ensemble
Penny Ashmore (Peter Pan the musical, Killing Eve, Fingask Follies) as Jenny Lind/ Ensemble
Josh Barnett (Cruel Intentions, Newsies, Grease, Singin' in the Rain, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang) as the Ringmaster/ Bailey/ Onstage MD
Elena Bluck (A Little Night Music, Pippin) as Mrs Maddison/ Ensemble
Kiera Brunton (Wicked film 2024, Wonka, Strictly Come Dancing 2023) as Circus Performer/ Ensemble/ Dance Captain
Kaine Hatukai (Robin Hood, Rapunzel, The Little Mermaid) as Onstage Swing
Dan Holland (Putting on the Ritz, Goldilocks, Grab Life by the Fables) as Circus Performer/ Ensemble
Jessica Jolleys (Cinderella, Oliver Twist, Father Brown) as Mrs Mortimer/ Ensemble
Tania Mathurin (Mary Poppins, The Book of Mormon, Wicked, Hairspray, Doctor Doolittle) as Joice Heth/ Blues Singer/ Ensemble
Emma Jane Morton (Sweet Charity, Aladdin, Amelie, Cabaret) as Mrs Stratton/ Ensemble
Emily Odunsi (a recent graduate of the National Centre for Circus Arts, represented GBR at multiple international competitions) as Circus Performer/ Ensemble
Fergus Rattigan (Much Ado About Nothing, Wizard of Oz, Game of Thrones, Jungle Book) as General Tom Thumb/ Morissey/ Ensemble
Matt Rawle (Anything Goes, Pippin, Les Mis, Evita, Into The woods, Miss Saigon) as P.T Barnum
André Rodrigues (Barnum is his professional debut) as Circus Performer/ Ensemble
Laura Sillett (Hamlet, Sleeping Beauty, Sweet Charity) as Onstage Swing
Tom Sowinski (Camelot, Macbeth, Kiss Me Kate) as Lyman/ Goldschmidt/ Ensemble/ Assistant Onstage MD
Tom Sterling (Carousel, The Phantom of the Opera, My Fair Lady, The Crown) as Sherwood Stratton/ Templeton/ Ensemble
Monique Young (Old Friends, Gypsy, Mary Poppins, Singin' in the Rain, 42nd Street) as Charity Barnum
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