The Greatest Showman is the surprise chart phenomenon of recent years. Still in the top 10 after 18 months, the film soundtrack was the biggest global album of 2018.
Hugh Jackman, who starred as PT Barnum, is now on a victory lap: a 90-date world tour, including six nights at the O2. Accompanied by an orchestra, backing singers and dancers, he twirled his way through the opening spectacle of The Greatest Show and Come Alive, both perfect feelgood moments.
When Jackman’s co-star Keala Settle appeared for This Is Me, the film’s signature song of inclusivity, it was an emotional celebration that might have won over critics who hated the movie.
Jackman seemed to relish the chance to revisit other stage and screen roles. “I hope you’re not only Wolverine fans, it could be a long night,” said the 50-year-old. While a few empty anecdotes were a reminder that actors generally need lines, Jackman was an affable Aussie who kissed fans loitering by his ego ramp. A good singer rather than a great one, he seemed happy to be upstaged vocally by Settle and surprise guest Robbie Williams on an under-rehearsed duet of Angels.
Subtle songs rarely suited Jackman, who is a natural at meatier tunes from musical theatre. A dramatic return to Jean Valjean from Les Misérables was a remarkable transformation into the role that earned him an Oscar nod.
The second half was sillier but fun as Jackman adopted the flamboyant persona of his role in The Boy From Oz. At one point, he ended up in the arms of a failed Britain’s Got Talent contestant for reasons that weren’t entirely clear.
The greatest showman, or a self-indulgent superstar? A bit of both, perhaps. But Jackman’s energetic arena show is supremely entertaining.
Until Friday (0844 856 0202, theo2.co.uk)
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