Greatest Showman hero heads show at saved theatre

The show focuses on the life of American circus promoter P.T. Barnum

A theatre has launched its newest immersive production, a year after its last show helped save the venue from closure.

The Watermill Theatre's new show Barnum, which is based on the life of circus promoter PT Barnum, opens on Tuesday.

Barnum was played by Hugh Jackman in the hit film The Greatest Showman.

The news follows the success of the Newbury theatre's production of The Lord of the Rings last year - which won a national award and sold 17,000 tickets across its 12-week run.

Barnum has been choreographed by former Strictly Come Dancing professional Oti Mabuse.

Parts of the production will take place in the theatre's grounds

Director Jonathan O’Boyle said he was "thrilled" to be involved with the production, calling it a "magical show".

"With a fresh new take on this classic story, we’re approaching the show through a modern lens and perspective - celebrating the rich diversity and heritage of the show’s characters," he said.

Director Jonathan O’Boyle said he was "thrilled" to be involved with the production

It will partly take place across the theatre's grounds, alongside the more traditional stage setting.

Joint chief executives of the Watermill Claire Murray and Paul Hart said: "We're so excited to welcome this talented company of actors, musicians and acrobats and an extraordinary creative team to The Watermill for this new production of Barnum."

The production, which has also involved close work with the National Centre for Circus Arts, will run until September.

The Newbury based venue recently received £118,842 of funding

The Watermill received grant of almost £119,000 from Arts Council England in May, having been threatened with closure last year after losing £464,000 of funding from the same body.