Customer Reviews

Barnum

5 star:		(36)
4 star:		(6)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I have loved Barnum ever since I saw this production on PBS. The DVD is great but there is absolutely NO information about the production! No brochure, no program notes, no cast list, no printed song list, nothing; only a song list accessible using the menu button on the DVD remote. Shame on Waterbearer Films for having so little regard for its customers. There is some video noise on the DVD probably from the transfer from UK to North American video standards but it's still worth buying for the fabulous production of Cy Coleman's glorious musical.

I did not have the opportunity to see Barnum when it played Broadway. WHAT A FANTASTIC SHOW. Michael Crawford is superb as is the rest of the cast. Coleman's score is terrific, and the original staging by the late Joe Layton reminds us of his true genius. Any fan of the theatre will love this video, until it returns to the stage. With all of the good and bad revivals on broadway this one surely deserves to be at the top of the list

I first saw "Barnum" on Bravo back in 1994. I was blown away by it! Michael Crawford was so much fun to watch in the title role. The rest of the cast seemed to be enjoying themselves too. It was, however, 3 years(!) before I was able to get my hands on a copy of the video. The wait was well worth it! I had forgotten about the amazing staging/choreography of this show. If you're into musical theatre or Michael Crawford, then what are you waiting for? Buy this video...you'll be glad you did!

I have read many "5 Star" reviews on Amazon, I bought the CD or DVD or VHS, and found it to be "so-so"....maybe 3 1/2 stars. So, I am skeptical about Amazon reviews. But, in this case, the reviewers are "right on" when they praise this "Musical". And, this rendition stars a famous actor/singer, Michael Crawford. He is very good or even "excellent". You might want to buy it "used" but even at the "new" price, it is worth paying for... $30 is cheaper than one ticket to a show these days, correct!? You'll enjoy it, I "guarantee" it!.....:o) Email:boland7214@aol.

Michael Crawford is super. Watching this show it's hard to imagine doing this over 1400 times. I have seen the American movie version and there is absolutely no comparison! This is a must have for anyone who enjoys circus movies, musicals or both!

Barnum is a musical based on the life of famed Phineas Taylor Barnum. Michael Crawford portrays the man. Bringing a fresh energy to his portrayal Michael does such great stunts as walking the tight rope while singing. Sliding down a rope from the rear of the auditorium. This is a stage production that was taped in London. Michael Crawford's other credits include, The Phantom of the Opera, Flowers for Algernon, and Billy. He can also be seen in the Disney film CONDORMAN, and the Gene Kelly directed Motion Picture Hello Dolly. END

It's really a shame that more productions like this aren't available. Back in 50's musicals like "Of Thee I Sing" and "Once Upon a Mattress" aired on CBS with stars like Carol Burnett and Carroll O'Connor in major roles. With so much wonderful entertainment virtually lost to new generations, BARNUM was a real treat to behold. Michael Crawford shines as circus flim-flam man P.T. Barnum and proves that he's more than just a great singer, he's a true crowd pleaser. The rest of the cast does a fine job in keeping up with the whole circus atmosphere. It would be nice if they would put the original cast with Jim Dale and Glenn Close (before she was the star she is now) on video so we can see an American production as well. Some of the script changes due to locale tend to water the text down a bit, but not enough to dampen the fun. I highly recommend this to anyone who loves theatre, the circus, Michael Crawford, or to anyone who just wants to watch something "a little different".

Barnum was well worth sending half way across the world for,(sadly, no longer available in the UK). This lively musical is full of song, colour and breathtaking displays of skill and co-ordination. Michael Crawford is outstanding in his role as P.T. Barnum and is full of animation as he sings, dances and performs amazing circus feats which include walking on the tightrope.

I loved the musical Barnum. I have children and it was a production that appealed to all members of my family. Michael Crawford is a wonderful performer and he is supported by a strong cast. Well done!

Most know Michalle Crawford as the Phantom from Andrew LLoyd Webber's musical and appreciate the range of of voice. But few know really how gifted this man is until they see him in Barnum Not only does he act, sing and dance...but he walks a tightrope (with no net)...Brilliant