LIKE audiences across the world, the musical "The Greatest Showman" telling the life story of PT Barnum starring Hugh Jackman wowed hundreds of people who attended last night’s Open Air Cinema screening (Friday, June 8).

There was an eager sense of anticipation from the crowds waiting for the film to begin in Newcombes Meadow in Crediton.

The big screen burst into life at 9.15pm while everyone sat on chairs, cushions and rugs and kept warm under blankets.

"The Greatest Showman" is a 2017 American musical film directed by Michael Gracey in his directorial debut.

The film tells the story of P T Barnum’s creation of the Barnum and Bailey Circus and the lives of its star attractions.

Hugh Jackman plays the part of P T Barnun, the ambitious showman and entrepreneur.

From the beginning of the film until the end, the Crediton audience was entranced by the storyline and many clapped, cheered, sang and danced, more and more as the film progressed.

At the end of the film, at about 11.15pm, there was a huge cheer and round of applause for the Crediton Town Team, which staged the free film screening.

There were stalls selling drinks, sweets and ice creams and strawberries and cream.

Students from Queen Elizabeth’s School in Crediton, who are fundraising for a trip to Costa Rica in July 2019, helped as stewards and sold sweets.

Kate Lock from the Town Team said on "Twitter" before the film started: "Marvellous to see so many people here for ’The Greatest Showman’ brought to you by the Crediton Town Team."

Previously the Town Team staged a film screening in Newcombes Meadow as part of the 2017 CredFest, which was very well attended and was regarded as a great success.

Debbie Richards, who attended the screening yesterday, took to "Facebook" after the film finished and said: "Great community atmosphere at this year’s open air cinema. Well done to the Town Team."