A glamorous, golden night of song and dance!

The stage was a feast for the eyes, effortlessly transforming from hotel lobbies to glamorous ballrooms. Each scene was full of elegance and sophistication, perfectly capturing the style and magic of the 1930s. The attention to detail, from sweeping staircases to glimmering backdrops, was simply stunning.

As soon as the curtain went up, the energy of the cast lit up the room. The performances were great! The leading man Jerry Travers, played by Phillip Attmore swept across the stage with effortless charm, capturing Fred Astaire’s suave spirit while making the role very much his own. His dancing was sharp, smooth, and utterly mesmerising! Amara Okereke, playing the ever-glamorous leading lady Dale Tremont, was equally captivating. Her voice was beautiful, as was her elegance in the dance sequences. Their chemistry was playful, romantic, and enchanting to watch.

The supporting cast deserve high praise too. They brought wonderful humour, heart, and sparkle to the stage, with standout comedic timing that had the whole audience laughing out loud. Horace Hardwick (Jerrys producer) played by James Hume, brings sharp wit and comic timing. Alongside his wife Madge Hardwick played by Sally Ann Triplett, who was my favourite character! She is sophisticated, often icy, but with comedic bite. Bates, the Harwick family’s butler played by James Clyde has a dry wit and a more physical comedy dimension. Alberto, the flamboyant Italian designer played by Alex Gibson-Giorgio comes with a flair for drama, bold costumes, theatrical gestures, and a playful sense of showmanship.

The ensemble numbers were spectacular! Being a tap dancer myself, I absolutely loved the synchronised tap routines! They filled the stage with rhythm, sparkle, and joy. The orchestra, performing Irving Berlin’s timeless score, added another layer of magic, filling the theatre with rich, uplifting sound.

What struck me most was how beautifully the production balanced light-hearted fun with heartfelt moments. The story, full of mistaken identities and romantic twists, was told with warmth and wit, keeping the audience hooked until the very end. The dazzling dance sequences were matched by moments of genuine tenderness, making the show both glamorous and emotionally satisfying.

Whether you’re a fan of classic musicals, a lover of dance (like me), or simply looking for a joyful evening out, Top Hat is a beautiful show! It’s a glamorous, golden night of entertainment that will leave you tapping your toes and smiling all the way home.

Top Hat is at Milton Keynes Theatre until 27th September 2025.  Tickets are available from £15.00 (+ £3.95 transaction fee), General bookings: 0844 871 7615, Access bookings:0333 009 5399, Group bookings:0207 206 1174 or online.

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