
Manx actress cast as Charity Barnum
Manx actress Samantha Barks is to star in a stage version of smash hit film The Greatest Showman.
It's to have its world premiere at the Bristol Hippodrome, running from 15 March to 10 May 2026, before the show’s highly anticipated West End transfer.
Based on the 2017 film, the new stage adaptation features songs by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, a book by Tim Federle, and direction and choreography by Casey Nicholaw.
The production marks the first 20th Century Studios title to be adapted for the stage by Disney Theatrical Group.
The Island-born star will perform the role of Charity Barnum opposite Oliver Tompsett as P. T. Barnum.
She said: "I’m thrilled to be rejoining the Disney family to play Charity Barnum.
"There is something utterly magical about The Greatest Showman – the songs have become instant classics – and I’m so excited to partner with Olly to bring this incredible couple and their enduring love to life on stage."