- Finale episode serves
Maun Theatre Group concluded its riveting run of The Greatest Showman with a performance that left audiences on their feet, applauding. A fitting farewell to a cast that poured heart and soul into every note, step, and line.
From the opening act to the final bow, the ensemble dazzled with energetic choreography, rich vocals, and a set that transported the audience straight into the industrial age world of P.T. Bar-num, the legendary entertainer whose story the musical is based on. Known for championing uniqueness and daring dreams, Barnum’s spirit was alive in the Maun production, which seamlessly blended multicultural flair, circus-inspired spectacle, and emotionally rich performances.
One of the most powerful scenes unfolded in a dimly lit bar setup, where the main character played by Carl Grulke, grappling with regret and self-reflection, launched into a stirring rendition of “From Now On,” from the original play staring Hugh Jackman.
A soft blue light bathed his face as he sang, “I saw the sun begin to dim,” setting the emotional tone for the turning point of characters arc. The energy built steadily as cast members joined in, turning the solo into a triumphant anthem of renewal.
“From now on, these eyes will not be blinded by the lights,” the lead belted, as the ensemble swelled around him.
What followed was a spirited march through the space, with dancers and vocalists echoing the powerful chorus: “And we will come back home… home again!”
The number brought the audience to life, perfectly encapsulating of the production’s message of belonging, redemption, and resilience.
The set design divided into layered levels that played with dimension allowed for fluid transitions between scenes, while the lighting masterfully captured the mood, especially during more emotional arcs. Elaborate costumes and aerial performers added colour and dynamism, creating a true spectacle worthy of the Broadway original. Like many stage musicals, Maun’s version embraced live vocals, giving the show a raw, electric intimacy that drew the audience in.
For many cast members, this closing night marked not only the end of a show but the end of a journey. Nicola Weyl, a long-time performer with the Maun Theatre Association (MTA), shared heartfelt reflections as she prepares to leave Maun.
“Being a part of several Maun Theatre Association productions over the past few years has given me so much enjoyment,” she said. “Despite being an introvert by nature, it has enabled me to flourish in something I am passionate about. The productions and their directors have helped me gain confidence, pushed me to levels I did not know I was capable of, and given me a true sense of belonging Now that I am leaving Maun, my only wish is that those watching from the audience dying to get up there, gain the confidence to take that first step in pursuing their creative dreams!”
Weyl added, “I will miss it incredibly. The future of MTA is only going to get brighter, and I look forward to watching it unfold.”
Another departing cast member, Robyn Currel, spoke of her deep connection to the art form and the group’s tenacious spirit.
“Theatre is life,” Currel said. “It’s when many minds come together, all working towards one purpose, that something magical happens. It becomes a gift — to the audience, to each other. It’s pure. Maun Theatre Group has given me the joy of seeing what’s possible when a group dares to dream big. I want the legacy of this group to be one of courage to strive for bigger, braver pro-ductions, things that at first might seem impossible or too ambitious. Nothing is too big for this creative, courageous group of people who have stepped up every single time.”
She added that while rehearsals had their tough moments, the support from fellow cast members kept her going. “In all the amateur dramatic societies I’ve been part of, this is the only one where no one is above anyone else. Everyone plays their part, and we all work toward one goal: creating magical, memorable, real theatre to share with our community and beyond.”
As the final curtain dropped and the applause echoed into the night, the cast bowed one last time, basking in the warmth of a crowd who had been moved, entertained, and inspired. For some performers, this marked the end of their MTA journey. For others, it was only the beginning.
