Review: Top Hat The Musical, at Nottingham’s Theatre Royal

All singing, all dancing, Top Hat is a joyous throwback to the golden era of Hollywood.

Adapted from the classic 1935 film starring Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, Top Hat The Musical is playing at Nottingham’s Theatre Royal until this Saturday (October 11).

It is hard not to love this show, which is filled with classic show tunes and lighthearted humour that makes for a wonderful evening of old school entertainment — as the saying goes, “they don’t make ‘em like they used to.”

Art mimics life as experienced Broadway star Phillip Attmore takes on the lead role of famous dancer Jerry Travers.

He plays opposite Amara Okereke as leading lady Dale Tremont, a fiercely independent but stubborn socialite who plays hard to get.

Jerry is used to women falling at his feet, but when Dale seems indifferent in his presence, he feels an intense draw to her.

Throw in a little bit of mistaken identity and hilarity ensues, set against the backdrop of some stunning sets which evoke the Art Deco era.

James Hume and Sally Ann Triplett were hilarious as the pairing of Horace and Madge Hardwick, playing the “I hate my husband/wife” bit, which can often feel tired, to perfection.

Meanwhile, James Clyde as the caricature English valet Bates, and Alex Gibson-Giorgio in the role of larger than life Italian fashion designer Alberto Beddini, produced laugh out loud moments with their over the top acting and splendid slapstick comedy.

Erving Berlin’s immortal music entered the public consciousness a long time ago, and was brought to life with tremendous energy by conductor Stephen Ridley and his live band.

Whether it was “Puttin’ on the Ritz’ or “Let’s Face the Music and Dance” the musical numbers are instantly recognisable and can’t help but put a smile on your face.

These show tunes were complimented perfectly by delightful dance numbers, as the ensemble cast gave it the ol’ razzle dazzle with utmost precision and professionalism — directed and choreographed by Tony and Olivier Award-winner Kathleen Marshall — and in my opinion made the show.

The costumes too, look as if they have been lifted straight off the silver screen and onto the stage, with gorgeous gowns and terrific tailoring, it’s easy to get lost in this world of 1930s glamour.

With a very low stakes but fun plot, this show has something for everyone, and can be enjoyed by an audience of all ages.

But fair warning, when you leave the theatre, you’ll be tapping your feet and humming a tune.

— FB