The Greatest Showman
Modern musical
A musical inspired by P.T. Barnum's creation of the circus, celebrating diversity and dreams.
About This Theme
The Greatest Showman has become a modern recital favourite because its themes resonate with dancers of all ages. Songs about dreaming big, being yourself, and finding your place hit home for students and audiences alike. The music itself is incredibly danceable. From the driving beat of The Greatest Show to the emotional swell of A Million Dreams, every track offers clear choreographic opportunities. The circus theme also lets you incorporate acrobatics, tricks, and theatrical elements that make for memorable performances.
This Is Me has become an anthem for anyone who has ever felt different. When your students perform it with conviction, you will see audience members reaching for tissues. That emotional connection is priceless. The circus theme also gives you permission to go big. Flashy costumes, dramatic lighting, theatrical staging - it all fits the world of the show. Your recital can feel like a real spectacle, which parents love.
Age Groups & Casting
Key Roles & Characters
Song Suggestions
Costume Ideas
Circus aesthetic means rich colours, sequins, and theatrical details. Ring-master looks with top hats and tailcoats work for Barnum. Phillip and Anne can wear coordinating colours in circus-inspired silhouettes.
For This Is Me, embrace bold, individual looks - each performer can have a unique costume that reflects their character while sharing a common colour palette. Think jewel tones with gold accents.
The circus ensemble can wear matching base costumes (leotards or unitards) with individual accessories that suggest different acts - feather headpieces, sequined capes, or striped details.
Staging & Set Ideas
A circus ring suggested by lighting or a simple curved set piece establishes the world. Red and gold colours throughout tie everything together.
Key moments: The opening needs impact - consider curtains that sweep open dramatically. Rewrite the Stars works beautifully with aerial silks if you have trained students, or can be adapted with lifts and floor work. Never Enough benefits from a spotlight-focused staging that creates intimacy.
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