Roll up, roll up - a different type of circus has arrived in Torquay, writes Neil Edwards.

We’re all aware of Hollywood’s ‘The Greatest Showman’ which was based on the original production of the hit musical Barnum. This latest production delivers all the colour, excitement and theatrical flair with Matt Rawle leading the charge in a captivating performance as the legendary showman P.T. Barnum.

From his first appearance, Rawle commands the stage with effortless charisma. Possessing the confidence and charm essential to portraying one of history's greatest promoters, he captures Barnum's larger-than-life personality while never losing sight of the man behind the myth.

His performance is energetic and engaging throughout, blending humour, ambition and vulnerability in equal measure, although because of the combination of fast, witty lyricism and that American drawl accent I did find it difficult at times to understand what was being said.

The production embraces the musical’s circus heritage with infectious enthusiasm. The theatre is transformed into a vibrant world of wonder, packed with colourful costumes, lively choreography and ingenious staging. The clever technicians at the Princess Theatre have worked their magic yet again!

Every scene bursts with movement, creating the sense that anything might happen. The ensemble cast deserves enormous praise for maintaining an extraordinary level of energy throughout the evening, seamlessly switching between performers, townsfolk and a variety of eccentric characters from Barnum's famous exhibitions.

The score, featuring favourites such as Come Follow the Band, The Colours of My Life and Join the Circus, is performed with confidence and flair by the cast and orchestra but if I’m honest I did find it all a bit ‘samey’, although there’s no doubt Rawle’s rendition of ‘The Colours of My Life’ and Penny Ashmore’s stunning vocals as Jenny Lind - the Swedish Nightingale - were among the evening's highlights.

Equally impressive is the relationship between Barnum and his wife, Charity played by Monique Young. Their scenes together provide the emotional core of the production, grounding the spectacle in a story about family, loyalty and the personal cost of ambition.

The chemistry between the leads feels authentic and engaging, ensuring that the quieter moments carry just as much impact as the show’s grand set pieces.

Of course, Barnum is remembered as much for its spectacle as its storytelling, and this production does not disappoint. From acrobatic displays to moments of theatrical illusion, there is a sense of excitement running throughout the evening.

These visual flourishes never feel gimmicky, instead enhancing the narrative and helping to bring Barnum's extraordinary world vividly to life.

Ultimately, Barnum succeeds because it celebrates the joy of live entertainment itself. Led by by an exceptional company, this is a production full of imagination, warmth and show-biz magic. It is a great reminder that, in the right hands, the circus can still leave audiences amazed.

Barnum runs until Saturday, August 29 at the Princess Theatre, Torquay.