Matt Rawle will step onto the tightrope as legendary showman P.T. Barnum when the spectacular circus musical arrives at Belfast’s Grand Opera House this October.
Belfast audiences are being invited to run away with the circus when Barnum brings its irresistible combination of musical theatre, acrobatics and showmanship to the Grand Opera House.
The dazzling production will run from Tuesday 13 until Saturday 17 October 2026, led by acclaimed West End performer Matt Rawle as the ambitious entertainer P.T. Barnum.
The story of the world’s greatest showman
Set in 19th-century America, Barnum follows the extraordinary life and career of Phineas Taylor Barnum—a dreamer determined to turn his enormous imagination into reality.
Alongside his devoted wife, Charity, Barnum pursues one ambitious idea after another. His relentless search for something bigger and more spectacular brings success, setbacks and plenty of strain to their relationship.
The musical explores the man behind the spectacle, balancing Barnum’s colourful public persona with the quieter love story at its heart.
Matt Rawle takes centre stage
Matt Rawle will lead the production as P.T. Barnum, following major stage appearances in Cabaret, Evita and Les Misérables.
The role famously demands more than singing and acting. Rawle will also take on the tightrope challenge that became part of the musical’s theatrical legacy.
Michael Crawford made stage history during the production’s original London Palladium run by completing a high-wire walk at every performance. Now Rawle will follow in those famous footsteps—or carefully placed balancing shoes—as he brings Barnum’s daring personality to life.
A cast of musicians, acrobats and circus performers
Directed by Jonathan O’Boyle and choreographed by Strictly Come Dancing champion Oti Mabuse, the production features an ensemble of more than 20 performers.
Actor-musicians will appear alongside acrobats and circus artists, transforming the Grand Opera House stage into a vivid world of music, movement and spectacle.
From big ensemble numbers to thrilling physical performances, the show promises the colour and excitement expected from a musical carrying the Barnum name.
Classic musical numbers
The production features music by celebrated composer Cy Coleman, lyrics by Michael Stewart and a book by Mark Bramble.
Audiences can expect a collection of classic show tunes, including:
- Join the Circus
- Colours of My Life
- Come Follow the Band
- Love Makes Such Fools of Us All
The score combines bold, brass-filled circus numbers with more reflective songs exploring Barnum’s ambitions and his relationship with Charity.
With its infectious music, spectacular staging and larger-than-life central character, Barnum promises an entertaining night for families and musical-theatre fans alike.
Show information
Production: Barnum
Venue: Grand Opera House, Belfast
Dates: Tuesday 13–Saturday 17 October 2026
Times: 2.30pm and 7.30pm, depending on performance
Tickets: £32.50–£60, including the maximum applicable booking fee
Running time: Approximately two hours and 15 minutes, including an interval
Age guidance: Recommended for ages eight and over
Tickets and individual performance times are available through the official Grand Opera House website.
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