Barnum in Liverpool 2026
Barnum musical promises to whisk you away into a world of dazzling spectacle and unforgettable dreams. Experience the magic at Liverpool Empire from September 15 – September 19, 2026, where the extraordinary life of P.T. Barnum comes to vibrant life. Don’t miss out—grab your Barnum tickets now!
Barnum Liverpool Tickets
| Date | Price | Tickets |
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Tuesday 15 Sep 2026 19:30 |
Barnum from £15.00 |
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Wednesday 16 Sep 2026 14:30 |
Barnum from £15.00 |
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Wednesday 16 Sep 2026 19:30 |
Barnum from £15.00 |
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Thursday 17 Sep 2026 14:30 |
Barnum from £15.00 |
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Thursday 17 Sep 2026 19:30 |
Barnum from £15.00 |
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Friday 18 Sep 2026 19:30 |
Barnum from £15.00 |
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Saturday 19 Sep 2026 14:30 |
Barnum from £30.50 |
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Saturday 19 Sep 2026 19:30 |
Barnum from £28.50 |
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Cast in Liverpool
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: Liverpool Empire
Barnum on Tour: Explore Upcoming Cities
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Barnum playing in Liverpool in 2026?
Barnum The Circus Musical runs at Liverpool Empire Theatre from Tuesday 15 September to Saturday 19 September 2026, with performances throughout the week. The schedule includes evening shows each night and both an afternoon and an evening performance on the Saturday.
Where in Liverpool is Barnum being performed?
The show is at Liverpool Empire Theatre on Lime Street in the city centre. The theatre is directly opposite Lime Street Station and close to many bus routes, shops, restaurants, and hotels, making it easy to combine the musical with a full day or night out.
What is Barnum the musical about?
Barnum tells the story of Phineas Taylor Barnum, the 19th‑century showman who turns quirky curiosities into a spectacular circus empire, blending truth and “humbug” to wow audiences. The musical follows his journey from modest beginnings to his legendary circus partnership, exploring his big ambitions, his relationship with his loyal wife Charity, and the personal cost of chasing ever bigger dreams.
Has Barnum won any awards?
The original Broadway production of Barnum was a major success and won several Tony Awards, including Best Actor in a Musical and design awards for its inventive staging and costumes. The more recent Watermill Theatre production that inspired this tour earned five‑star reviews and praise for its imaginative blend of circus, actor‑musicians, and heartfelt storytelling.
Who stars in the Liverpool run of Barnum?
On the Liverpool dates of the 2026 tour, West End star Matt Rawle appears as P.T. Barnum. He leads a large ensemble of over 20 actor‑musicians, acrobats, and circus performers who together create the show’s big musical numbers and visual spectacle live on stage.
What can I expect from this Liverpool Empire production?
This production features more than 20 actor‑musicians playing around 150 instruments live, alongside dazzling acrobats and circus acts. Directed by Jonathan O’Boyle with choreography by Oti Mabuse and circus direction by Amy Panter, it offers bold staging, tightrope moments, and classic 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 Liverpool?
Performances of Barnum typically run for just over two hours plus an interval. At Liverpool Empire, evening shows generally start at 7.30pm, so arriving 45–60 minutes early gives time to collect tickets, find your seats, and get refreshments without feeling rushed.
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 the story also touches on themes like ambition, exploitation, and personal sacrifice, and includes some intense moments, it is best suited to school‑age children rather than very young kids, and matinee performances are often the most relaxed for family visits.
What time do Barnum performances start in Liverpool?
During the Liverpool run, evening performances are scheduled at 7.30pm from Tuesday 15 to Saturday 19 September 2026. On the Saturday, there is also a matinee at 2.30pm, giving you a choice between an afternoon or evening visit.
How much do tickets cost and how can I get cheap tickets?
Tickets for Barnum at Liverpool Empire are advertised from around £15 for selected performances and seating areas, with higher prices for better‑located and premium seats. To get cheaper tickets, look at midweek performances and matinees, 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?
There are often group rates and coach‑trip packages that reduce the per‑ticket cost for larger parties. Signing up for theatre newsletters or ticket‑seller alerts can also help you hear about presales, early‑bird discounts, and short‑term promotions before the cheapest seats sell out.
How do I get to Liverpool Empire Theatre and is parking available?
Liverpool Empire is directly opposite Liverpool Lime Street Station, making it easy to reach by train and by many city bus routes. Several car parks and multi‑storey facilities are within walking distance of the theatre, so 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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