The Greatest Showman | |
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The New Musical | |
![]() Production logo | |
Music | Benj Pasek Justin Paul |
Lyrics | Benj Pasek Justin Paul |
Book | Tim Federle |
Setting | 19th-century New York City |
Basis |
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Premiere | Spring 2026: Bristol Hippodrome |
Productions | 2026 Bristol 2027 Broadway |
The Greatest Showman is an upcoming stage musical with music and lyrics by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, who wrote the songs for the movie, and a book by Tim Federle, based on 20th Century Studios's 2017 film, which in turn is based on the life of P. T. Barnum, creator of the Barnum & Bailey Circus.
On March 5, 2024, it was reported by Baz Bamigboye from Deadline Hollywood that the stage adaptation of the film was in development by Disney Theatrical Productions, opening in Bristol in Spring 2026 before heading to the West End and Broadway, following a workshop in Fall 2023. [1] On August 9, 2024, it was also announced at D23 Expo by Disney Theatricals with a performance of "The Greatest Show," the opening and closing number of the film which is also expected to do the same on stage. All songs from the film are expected to be included, with Pasek and Paul contributing five new songs to the production. The musical is also Disney's first stage adaptation of a 20th Century Studios film following The Walt Disney Company's 2019 acquisition of 21st Century Fox and its assets. [2]
On March 5, 2025, it was announced that the musical will have its world premiere in spring 2026 at the Bristol Hippodrome prior to a West End run. It will be directed and choreographed by Casey Nicholaw and produced by Disney Theatrical Productions. While no actors from the film have currently been confirmed to reprise their roles on stage, open auditions will be held across the UK. [3] Further details are to be announced. Alan Vaytsman will play Barnum when the show opens on Broadway