Top Hat ★★★★★ The Mill at Sonning | Nov 16 - Dec 30, 2022


"If you're blue, and you don't know where to go ..." this show fits. It'll have you Puttin' On the Ritz! Apologies to Irving Berlin for mangling his lyrics, but this production of his classic at The Mill at Sonning is "super-duper." In addition to Berlin's great songs, there's lots of laughs and some terrific hoofing. Despite the relatively small size of the venue, Director Jonathan O'Boyle and Choreographer, Ashley Nottingham have managed to mount a big show that never looks squeezed in and never overwhelms the space available. The big production numbers work and are an absolute delight. We found Jason Denvir's set design first-rate and beautifully detailed, while Natalie Titchener's costumes were stunningly stylish. Indeed, everything is in place to support an excellent cast led by Jonny Labey. As Jerry Travers, the Broadway star who comes to London, Labey taps his way into the audience's heart as he deals with new-found love and its lunatic complications. The paper-thin plot is satisfyingly predictable, and the perfect pacing and great one-liners ensure that things keep bouncing along as we await the next musical sequence. Two of the cast who stood out for us were Paul Kemble as the put-upon Horace Hardwick and Julia J Nagle as Madge. The latter's delivery of her great put-down lines was spot on. This is an elegant and sophisticated production that captures the spirit of the movie classic. We'd say don't miss this opportunity to wine and dine at The Mill at Sonning and to put on the Ritz.

Rated: ★★★★★

Reviewed by J.C.
Photo by Andreas Lambis.

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When, Where, Getting there:
  • Nov 16 - Dec 30, 2022
  • Wed - Sat & Sun Dec 11, 18: 8:15 pm. Restaurant open and serving dinner from 6:15 pm - 8 pm
  • Sat & Sun from Nov 19 & Dec 22, 28, 29: 2:15 pm. Restaurant open and serving lunch from 12:15 pm - 2 pm
  • The Mill at Sonning
  • Nearest station: Reading
  • https://millatsonning.com/shows/top-hat-2/
Map & Location: Sonning Eye, Reading RG4 6TY, UK

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