THE circus came to town in fine style this week with Brian Conley and co hitting the stage in Bradford.

Walking the tightrope, eating fire and stilt-walking seemed to come naturally to West End stalwart Conley and his fellow performers in Barnum at the Alhambra.

The show follows the story of Phineas T Barnum, legendary 19th century showman and entrepreneur, who created Barnum's American Museum and Barnum and Bailey's Circus. The latter attraction became known as the greatest show on Earth.

Alongside long-suffering wife Chairy, it follows Barnum's trials and tribulations as he follows his dream to make money and entertain people.

Conley is captivating as the ringmaster. He is funny, had a warm stage presence and also interacted with some of the audience.

The support cast were also impressive, including a 160-year-old woman, Tom Thumb and Jumbo, the world's biggest elephant who also put in a cameo appearance.

Away from the circus skills on display, Cy Coleman's score was brought to life through songs including Come Follow The Band.

But the highlight of the night had to be Conley performing a tightrope walk from one side of the stage to the other.

There was even a show before the show, as a few of the performers demonstrated their circus skills among the audience just before the curtain came up.

This colourful performance certainly warmed up a cold Bradford evening and did justice to its tag of the Greatest Show on Earth.

The show runs at the Alhambra until Saturday.

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