Barnum has brought the circus and the story of P.T. Barnum to Bournemouth this week! This spectacular production, directed by Jonathan O’Boyle and choreographed by Oti Mabuse, features an extraordinary ensemble cast of over 20 actor-musicians, acrobats, and amazing circus acts. Audiences are certain to delight at every sight, wonder, and miracle that the name Barnum stands for.

Barnum stars TV and West End star Lee Mead as he takes centre stage as Barnum himself. Lee shot to stardom with his breakout win on Any Dream Will Do and acclaimed performances in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Wicked, and Legally Blonde.

We held a press night to host our reviewers and there's not a humbug in sight!

• @james_edward_lees
• New Milton Advertiser & Lymington Times
• Bournemouth Echo
• BBC
• @rubyontheroadxx
• @itsemchannel

Barnum is at Bournemouth Pavilion from Thursday 18 - Saturday 20 June 2026. Tickets are available at bournemouthpavilion.co.uk

Photography credit: Pamela Raith