Some stories stay with you forever. Top Hat is one of them. Now playing at Birmingham Hippodrome, this stage adaptation of the beloved 1935 film starring Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers is a nostalgic celebration of elegance, wit, and infectious rhythm.
My Gran used to watch this with me in the 1970s, when I was just a child. There were no worries about what she was exposing me to, just a simple, beautiful story, gentle yet powerful humour, and dazzling, mesmerising dance routines. She probably thought it was good for me in some way (I think she was probably right).
Set in the 1930s, the costumes shimmer with Hollywood glamour, from silk gowns to feathered accents. The revolving Art Deco set adds elegance and movement, keeping the pace dynamic, while clever lighting and a live orchestra wrap the production in a glow of sophistication.
Story, Music, and Choreography
The plot follows Jerry Travers, a charming Broadway star whose head is turned by the independent fashion model Dale Tremont. Mistaken identities, comic misunderstandings, and romantic tension drive the story, much like the original film, but here it is amplified with live tap, swing, and Broadway flair.
Top Hat features the iconic score of Irving Berlin, including Puttin’ on the Ritz, Let’s Face the Music and Dance, and Top Hat, White Tie and Tails. Performed by a superb live orchestra, the music infuses the whole production with energy, ensuring you will be toe-tapping along from start to finish.
The choreography is dazzling. Tap dancing, often overlooked today, takes centre stage in magical, razor-sharp routines. Phillip Attmore as Jerry delivers effortless, breathtaking tap, with a particular highlight in the fabulous Act One finale featuring top hats and canes. Matched by Amara Okereke, whose commanding vocals and elegant movement light up the stage, the pair deliver chemistry that carries the show.
Standout Performances
Additional charm and comedy come from Alex Gibson-Giorgio as the flamboyant Alberto Beddini, James Hume as Horace Hardwick, and Kirsty Sparks as Madge Hardwick. The ensemble itself delivers polished, breathtaking routines that make the stage feel impossibly large.
While a more mature audience may appreciate the subtleties of humour and nostalgia, younger theatre-goers will also delight in the simple storytelling, magical moments, and timeless music, just as I did with my Gran years ago, and I suspect they would enjoy it just as much.
Top Hat runs at Birmingham Hippodrome until Saturday 7 March. For ticket information, click [here].
