Top Hat | The Lowry

The Chichester Festival Theatre’s dazzling production of Irving Berlin’s Top Hat has glided into The Lowry in Salford, marking one of its final stops after an extensive UK tour. Inspired by the 1935 film starring Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, this stage adaptation brings old-school glamour and toe-tapping charm back into the spotlight.

Top Hat follows American dancer Jerry Travers (Phillip Attmore), who arrives in London for a new show and quickly becomes smitten with the elegant Dale Tremont (Nicole-Lily Baisden). A classic case of mistaken identity leads Dale to believe Jerry is already married, turning romance into frustration. From London to Venice, misunderstandings and comic encounters keep them apart—until the truth is finally revealed and love takes centre stage.

The show feels like a tale of two halves. The first act takes its time to find its footing and can feel a little slow, though standout moments like ‘Puttin’ on the Ritz’ and ‘Top Hat, White Tie and Tails’ bring bursts of energy with big, crowd-pleasing ensemble performances. The second act is longer but picks up the pace, with humour landing more effectively and the show settling into its rhythm. That said, a bit of trimming could help keep it tighter throughout.

Kathleen Marshall’s choreography is a highlight, with a lively mix of tap and ballroom numbers. The production shifts smoothly between show-stopping ensemble pieces and more intimate moments for the leads, which keeps things feeling fresh. At times, the set design (Peter McKintosh) seems slightly restrictive, but it rarely detracts from the overall experience. Transitions are polished, with a revolving stage creating a seamless, old-Hollywood elegance, while the lighting adds a warm, cinematic glow to the grand numbers and a softer, romantic touch to the quieter scenes.

The cast is well-balanced, with several performers making a real impression. Emma Williams brings a spark of perfectly timed humour as Madge Hardwick in Act Two, helping to drive the story forward. Her chemistry with James Hume as Horace Hardwick is effortless, and together they land some of the show’s funniest moments. James Clyde also shines as Bates, forming a strong double act with Horace; his dry delivery and sharp timing make him a standout in the sidekick moments.

With so many larger-than-life characters, the central love story occasionally feels overshadowed. Both Attmore and Nicole-Lily Baisden don’t always get the space to fully shine, particularly in busier ensemble scenes. Even so, they do deliver commendable performances, carrying the elegance and charm the show demands. When the focus settles on them, especially in quieter, more intimate scenes, their chemistry and presence come through beautifully.

Top Hat is an entertaining show, full of familiar songs and beautifully choreographed numbers that delight on stage. Yet, with some pacing issues and a fairly predictable story, it doesn’t quite reach the heights of the Hollywood classic it honours. While it tips its hat to the golden age of musical theatre with undeniable charm, it ultimately feels more nostalgic than show-stopping.

Top Hat plays at The Lowry until Saturday 04th April - tickets and more information can be found here.

★★★☆☆ (3*)

Gifted tickets in return for an honest review | Photography by Andrew Perry