Top Hat ★★★★ Southbank Centre | Dec 12, 2025 - Jan 17, 2026


“They’re Dancing Cheek to Cheek Again!” The posters and advertising for the original 1935 film starring Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers promised romance, dancing, and songs you would never forget. This current production is every bit as delightful as the original and largely lives up to the film’s hype. The farcical confusions of the love story continue to charm and amuse, and it is refreshing that director Kathleen Marshall has chosen not to update the references. The show is unapologetically presented as a period piece, relying on the quality of its singing and dancing to bridge the gap between eras. With its unforgettable Irving Berlin score and top notch tapping from Phillip Attmore as Jerry Travers, it succeeds admirably. Attmore clearly relishes his role, and his exuberance is infectious. As Jerry’s love interest, Dale Tremont, Amara Okereke displays a fine voice, and the couple’s “Let’s Face the Music and Dance” is a definite highlight. As the comic foils the young lovers, Horace and Madge Hardwick, Clive Carter and Sally Ann Triplett are thoroughly enjoyable, and their rendition of “Outside of That, I Love You” is expertly executed fun. Kathleen Marshall’s choreography is clever and assured. She makes skilful use of her cast’s strengths and never asks the impossible of them. Given the limited stage space, the large production numbers such as “Puttin’ on the Ritz” and “I’m Putting All My Eggs in One Basket” are well conceived and neatly delivered. In her notes, Marshall mentions her intention is to create choreography that celebrates individuality. However, some may still miss the perfect technical synchronisation that usually defines the ensemble numbers. Peter McKintosh’s set is impressively versatile and manages to capture the spirit of the big screen. Altogether, this is a big, beautiful production that comes together splendidly. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself leaving the theatre and humming, “Heaven, I’m in heaven.”

Rated: ★★★★

Reviewed by J.C.
Photo by Johan Persson

When, Where, Getting there:
Map & Location: Southbank Centre, London SE1, UK

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