Barnum at The Watermill totally transports the audience from its small stage to P.T.Barnum’s world of wonders and curiosities. As Barnum asks his audience to be prepared to be amazed by the oldest woman, the smallest man, the great white whale, a mermaid, Jumbo the elephant, who all make an appearance, we are amazed and thoroughly entertained by the astonishing display of talent from the cast of actor musicians and circus performers.
Arriving at The Watermill, the audience is immediately immersed into the world of Barnum, being met by a fire performer before entering a circus big top with lights, acrobats, juggling, music, food and drink stalls. Entering the theatre we are treated to more incredible acrobatics from Kiera Brunton, Dan Holland, Emily Odunsi, André Rodrigues before the honky-tonk ragtime piano duets signal the start of the show.
Matt Rawle, as Barnum, the nineteenth-century dreamer of dreams, consummate con-man and the self-styled ‘Prince of Humbug’, is a convincing charming rogue. ‘Barnum’s my name and miracles are my game’ he quips as a mermaid’s tail and elephant trunk flash before the audience. We follow the highs and lows of his life, the burning down of the American Museum, his travelling circus and dabble in politics. The close relationship with his wife, Charity is explored with a sparky performance from Monique Young.
Barnum’s famous acts – Jenny Lind (Penny Ashmore), the world’s oldest woman, Joice Heth (Tania Mathurin) and General Tom Thumb (Fergus Rattigan) are all given solos and all have impressive voices. Penny Ashmore also reveals more talent as she accompanies herself on the harp and ends the show with a display of her ballet skills.
The whole cast of actor musicians really amaze the audience with their talents. On numerous occasions the musicians change from one instrument to another then burst into song and dance all within one song. The sheer range of musical instruments played is also staggering.
A particular highlight in the show is when Barnum (Matt Rawle), who can talk the talk, decides to walk the walk on the tightrope across the stage – the precariousness perhaps a symbol of his whole life. The audience are on the edge of their seats holding their breath as Barnum nearly falls and then erupt with whoops of applause as he makes it to the other side.
The show is spectacular entertainment and the audience showed their appreciation at the end with thunderous applause and stamping of feet. Barnum is playing at The Watermill until September 8. Book online at watermill.org.uk or via the box office on 01635 460044
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