Doyle Helmed Barnum Revival Cancelled

The recently announced revival of Barnum, to be directed by John Doyle in a minimalistic style as his follow-up to Company has been canceled according to a press release from San Diego's Old Globe Theatre where the show was set to make its out of town tryout this summer. The release notes that the show will not be performed "due to the theatre being unable to come to an agreement with the rights holders." It's to be replaced with an as of yet unannounced new show helmed by Doyle.

Barnum concerns humbug-loving circus impresario P.T. Barnum's founding and promotion of his famed circus, as well as his stormy-but-loving marriage to wife Chairy.  Barnum opened at the St. James Theatre on Broadway in April of 1980 and ran for a little over two years, closing in May of 1982. It won 3 Tony Awards--including one for star Jim Dale--and was nominated for 7 others, including Best Musical.  Originally staged by Joe Layton, the circus musical was also noted for its spectacular production values. Barnum features music by Cy Coleman, lyrics by Michael Stewart and book by Mark Bramble.

Doyle is a Tony Award-winner for his minimalist staging of Sweeney Todd, which featured a cast of actors doubling as the orchestra.  The same approach highlights his production of Company, which opened on Broadway this fall.  The director, whose other credits include Mack and Mabel, also recently staged a new London production of Amadeus.