Barnum UK & Ireland Tour 2026: Step Right Up for a Spectacle of Music, Acrobatics, and Star Power
Lee Mead, Oti Mabuse, and a dazzling ensemble bring the legendary showman P.T. Barnum to life in a whirlwind of song, circus, and theatrical spectacle.
The greatest show on earth is back. Barnum, the classic Broadway musical celebrating the life and ambitions of P.T. Barnum, is touring the UK and Ireland in 2026, starring West End favourite and TV star Lee Mead in the title role. Known for his breakout win on Any Dream Will Do and acclaimed performances in Joseph, Wicked, and Legally Blonde, Mead brings charisma and charm to the showman’s tightrope-walking, show-stopping story.
PHOTOS BY MARK SENIOR
Joining him is a stellar cast including Monique Young (Mary Poppins) as Charity Barnum, Penny Ashmore (Dr Strangelove) as Jenny Lind, and Dominique Planter (The Lion King) as Joice Heth, alongside Fergus Rattigan as General Tom Thumb. They are supported by a large ensemble of actor-musicians, acrobats, and circus performers, with choreography by Oti Mabuse and direction by Jonathan O’Boyle. Puppetry and circus sequences are brought to life by Significant Object and The National Centre for Circus Arts, ensuring a truly immersive experience.
The tour kicks off in Windsor in February, with London and nearby dates including:
- 30 Jan – 7 Feb: Windsor Theatre Royal
- 24 – 28 Mar: Aylesbury Waterside Theatre
- 19 – 23 May: Woking New Victoria Theatre
- 23 – 27 Jun: Richmond Theatre
- 29 Sep – 3 Oct: London New Wimbledon Theatre
Audiences can expect a dazzling mix of iconic show tunes, spectacular circus acts, and the whimsy and wonder that have made Barnum a theatre classic for generations.
For full UK and Ireland tour dates and ticket information, visit the Kenwright website.
Elena Leo is the Arts & Lifestyle Editor of Ikon London Magazine.
