Based on the classic 1935 movie starring Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, Top Hat is a sparkling romantic cocktail laced with witty comedy, stunning choreography and tap-dancing brilliance.
The original production premiered in 2011 and opened at the Milton Keynes Theatre before transferring to the Aldwych Theatre in London's West End, winning multiple Olivier Awards
The show tells the story of Broadway sensation, Jerry Travers, who dances his way across Europe to win the heart of society girl, Dale Tremont. It brings the glamour of Hollywood’s golden age and the glorious, tap-dancing magic of Astaire and Rogers to the stage in one of the greatest dance musicals of all time.
Top Hat has an immediate fix of the glamour of classic musicals. The set, the costumes and the energy in the auditorium threw you immediately back to classic Hollywood glitz. The production has more sequins and feathers than you knew you needed - but it's unashamedly beautiful.
Phillip Attmore takes on the role of Jerry Travers alongside Amara Okereke as Dale Tremont. Both are exceptionally skilled performers with a natural chemistry which shone on stage. Their physical and vocal ability shone through this evening in roles which are anything other than laid back. The stamina you require to take on these characters alone is worth five stars so to see that reflected in a seemingly effortless performance was a joy.
James Hume and Kirsty Sparks are comedy personified as Horace and Madge Hardwick. Their timing is exceptional and they brought an effortless charm to the piece - alongside James Clyde as Bates, the long-suffering man servant who's sporadic appearances are an absolute joy.
Clyde's delivery is on another level and at one point near the end of the second act had the entire audience in fits of laughter.
Top Hat is a beautiful mix of exquisite dancing, laughs and proper 30's cinematic flair - in fact there's not many marks this show doesn't hit and the reaction of the audience this evening cemented that feeling.
Top Hat plays at Birmingham Hippodrome until Saturday 7th March. For more information, or to get your tickets, head to birminghamhippodrome.com.
