Christopher Fitzgerald to Lead the Circus in Chichester Festival Theatre’s Barnum

Two-time Tony nominee Christopher Fitzgerald will take on the title role in the new Chichester Festival Theatre revival of Barnum, according to the U.K.’s Daily Mail. The musical features a book by Mark Bramble, lyrics by Michael Stewart and music by Cy Coleman. No additional casting or dates have been set, but the production is reportedly eyeing a West End transfer.

Set in the 19th century, Barnum is based on the life of Phineas Taylor Barnum, who founded the circus that became the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. The musical originally opened on Broadway in 1980, starring Jim Dale as Barnum. The production earned three Tony Awards, including Best Actor in a Musical.

"[Barnum] needs an actor who can sing, dance, juggle, be a clown and an acrobat—and this man can do all of that," producer Cameron Mackintosh reportedly said of Fitzgerald.

Fitzgerald earned Tony nominations for Finian’s Rainbow and Young Frankenstein. His additional Broadway credits include The Merchant of Venice, Wicked and Amour. His film and TV credits include Revolutionary Road, Boiler Room, Dedication, Personal Velocity: Three Portraits and Girl Most Likely.