Barnum relies on a strong actor playing PT Barnum and Matt Rawle steps admirably into these large shoes. It’s a difficult role requiring him to be on stage 95% of the time and it includes a lot of lib, some of which Matt failed to project over the footlights.

Barnum is ably supported by his long-suffering wife, Charity played by the amazing Monique Young, who (if I had any criticism at all) presents a little too young to be married to Mr Rawle. Spoiler alert number 1: Barnum is really the story of how men think they are in charge but the women in their life really are! So, the character of Charity is vital and is so well played by Monique.

The greatest thing by far about this production is the company. Many are actor-musicians playing (as the programme boasts) over 150 musical instruments. I’ve grown up listening to the original West End and Broadway versions of this show and although occasionally less polished in its sound, the onstage instrumentation of this production brings an authenticity to the story. Topping this are the amazing circus skills of the cast who impressively depict many of the aspects of Barnum’s story. Spoiler alert number 2: Particularly moving was the way they depicted the end of Charity’s life, leading her out of the circus ring – whilst wearing black clown costumes. The circus skills of this production certainly steal the show – it’s worth seeing for these alone.