There are few moments as thrilling as photographing live theatre — the lights, the drama, the movement, the emotion. But photographing the Coventry Musical Theatre Society’s (CMTS) dazzling production of Barnum at the Belgrade Theatre? That was a whole new level of visual delight.
A Show Bursting With Colour and Character
Barnum isn't your average musical. It's a bold, larger-than-life celebration of P.T. Barnum’s legendary showmanship, and CMTS brought it to life with a kaleidoscope of energy, circus flair, and heartfelt storytelling. From the opening number to the curtain call, every scene was packed with movement, spectacle, and emotion — a photographer’s dream, and challenge.
Lights, Camera, Action
The lighting design for this production was vibrant and dynamic, casting deep reds, electric blues, and glowing spotlights across the stage. The challenge? Capturing movement without losing sharpness or blowing out highlights — especially during acrobatic numbers and high-energy ensemble scenes. With fast shutter speeds and strategic positioning in the stalls, I was able to freeze moments of magic: a leap mid-air, a knowing glance between characters, a spotlight catching Barnum in his most reflective moment.
Costumes That Tell a Story
The costume department deserves its own standing ovation. The bright stripes, sequins, top hats, and tails all contributed to the visual storytelling, giving each photo a burst of personality. Whether it was the elegance of Jenny Lind or the exuberance of the ensemble’s circus performers, every outfit helped create a layered, textured world that was pure joy to document.
Faces That Tell a Thousand Stories
The heart of Barnum lies in its characters, and CMTS delivered performances rich in nuance and expressiveness. My camera lingered on furrowed brows, sly smiles, moments of doubt and wonder. These were the quiet counterpoints to the larger spectacle — the kind of shots that draw viewers into the emotional arc of the story.
A Community Coming to Life
What struck me most was the palpable sense of community. Backstage, in rehearsals, and during the performance, the camaraderie and passion of this cast and crew radiated through every frame. It’s one thing to photograph a professional touring show; it’s another to capture a group of passionate individuals bringing theatre to life because they love it.
Final Thoughts
Photographing Barnum for CMTS at the Belgrade Theatre wasn’t just another job — it was an invitation into a world of wonder, laughter, and heart. If you ever get the chance to see a CMTS production (or photograph one), take it. You’ll walk away inspired.