Barnum in Torquay 2026

Barnum musical bursts onto the scene, bringing a kaleidoscope of wonder to Torquay! Experience the dazzling spectacle at the Princess Theatre from August 25 – August 29, 2026. This captivating tale of dreams and ambition will leave you spellbound. Don’t miss out—secure your seats now with Barnum tickets.

Barnum Torquay Tickets

Date	Price	Tickets
Tuesday 25 Aug 2026 19:30	Barnum from £15.00	Tickets
Wednesday 26 Aug 2026 14:30	Barnum from £15.00	Tickets
Wednesday 26 Aug 2026 19:30	Barnum from £15.00	Tickets
Thursday 27 Aug 2026 14:30	Barnum from £15.00	Tickets
Thursday 27 Aug 2026 19:30	Barnum from £15.00	Tickets
Friday 28 Aug 2026 19:30	Barnum from £15.00	Tickets
Saturday 29 Aug 2026 14:30	Barnum from £20.00	Tickets
Saturday 29 Aug 2026 19:30	Barnum from £28.00	Tickets

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Cast in Torquay

Barnum The Circus Musical features a principal cast bringing to life the legendary showman P.T. Barnum and the key figures who shaped his story during the UK tour.

• Lee Mead as P.T. Barnum
• Matt Rawle as P.T. Barnum
• Monique Young as Charity Barnum
• Penny Ashmore as Jenny Lind
• Dominique Planter as Joice Heth
• Fergus Rattigan as General Tom Thumb

The Venue: Princess Theatre

Barnum on Tour: Explore Upcoming Cities

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Barnum playing in Torquay in 2026?

Barnum The Circus Musical runs at the Princess Theatre in Torquay from Tuesday 25 August to Saturday 29 August 2026, with performances across five days only. Tickets are on sale with prices starting from around £15, plus a small transaction fee.

Where in Torquay is Barnum being performed?

The show is at the Princess Theatre on Torbay Road, overlooking Torquay seafront. The venue is within walking distance of the harbour, town centre bus stops, and several nearby car parks, making it easy to combine the musical with a day at the seaside or a meal out.

What is Barnum the musical about?

Barnum follows the life of 19th‑century showman P.T. Barnum, who turns modest sideshow curiosities into a spectacular circus empire by blending truth with “humbug” to amaze audiences. The story charts his partnership with his loyal wife Charity, his bold schemes, and the emotional highs and lows he faces as he chases ever bigger dreams, set to music by Cy Coleman with lyrics by Michael Stewart and a book by Mark Bramble.

Has Barnum won any awards?

The original Broadway production of Barnum was a major hit and won several Tony Awards, including Best Actor in a Musical and design awards for its innovative staging and costumes. The 2024 Watermill Theatre revival that inspired this tour received five‑star reviews and widespread praise for its imaginative use of actor‑musicians, circus, and intimate storytelling.

Who stars in the Torquay run of Barnum?

In Torquay, Matt Rawle takes centre stage as P.T. Barnum on the autumn leg of the 2026 tour. He leads an extraordinary ensemble cast of over 20 actor‑musicians, acrobats, and circus performers who bring the world of Barnum to life on stage.

What can I expect from this Princess Theatre production?

This production features more than 20 actor‑musicians playing around 150 instruments live, alongside acrobats and amazing circus acts such as tightrope walking and juggling. Directed by Jonathan O’Boyle with choreography by Oti Mabuse and circus direction by Amy Panter, it combines classic musical theatre with bold contemporary staging and big show tunes like Join the Circus, Colours of My Life, Come Follow the Band, and Love Makes Such Fools of Us All.

How long does the Barnum performance last in Torquay?

The show typically runs for just over two hours plus an interval, similar to other stops on the tour. Arriving 45–60 minutes before the advertised start time gives you plenty of time to collect tickets, find your seats, and buy refreshments before the performance begins.

Is Barnum suitable for children and families?

Barnum is generally suitable for families with older children and teenagers, thanks to its circus‑style acts, music, and humour. Because it also touches on themes such as ambition, exploitation, and personal sacrifice and includes some intense moments, it is best suited to school‑age children rather than very young kids, with matinee performances often the most relaxed choice for family visits.

What time do Barnum performances start in Torquay?

Evening performances at the Princess Theatre for Barnum are scheduled around 7.30pm from Tuesday to Saturday during the run. There is also a Saturday matinee, typically at 2.30pm, so checking your chosen date and time on the ticketing calendar is important when planning travel and meals.

How can I get cheap tickets for Barnum in Torquay?

Ticket prices in Torquay start from about £15, rising for better‑placed and premium seats. To keep costs down, look at weekday performances and the Saturday matinee, choose seats further back or higher up in the auditorium, and compare all price bands on the seating map before booking.

Are there discounts or special offers for Barnum tickets?

Group rates and coach‑trip packages are available for selected performances, which can significantly reduce the per‑ticket cost for larger parties. Signing up for theatre newsletters, tour updates, and discount ticket sites is a good way to hear about early‑bird offers, presales, and occasional promotions before the cheapest seats sell out.

How do I get to the Princess Theatre and is parking available?

The Princess Theatre is on the seafront, a short walk from Torquay town centre and served by local buses along the coast road. There are several nearby car parks and on‑street bays, and arriving a little early usually makes it easier to find a space and get to your seat comfortably before the curtain goes up.

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