Last night at the Manchester Opera House, I was transported back to the glittering days of razzle-dazzle as I watched Top Hat the Musical come brilliantly to life on stage. A sparkling, feel-good musical that transports audiences straight into the glamorous world of 1930s Hollywood.
Based on the beloved Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers film, it blends breathtaking dance numbers, timeless Irving Berlin songs, and a charming romantic-comedy storyline. Bursting with elegance, humour, and classic showbiz style, it’s a joyful celebration of the golden age of musical theatre.
What You Will Find Here
What Is Top Hat The Musical About
The story follows Jerry Travers, a famous American tap dancer, who travels to London to star in a new show. While staying in a hotel, his late-night tap dancing wakes up Dale Tremont, a glamorous model.
Jerry instantly falls for her, but thanks to a case of mistaken identity, Dale believes he’s actually her best friend’s husband. Cue a whirlwind of misunderstandings, romantic mix-ups, witty banter, and big dance numbers as Jerry chases Dale across London and Venice trying to win her over.
What to Expect
With classic Irving Berlin songs like “Cheek to Cheek,” “Top Hat, White Tie and Tails,” “Let’s Face the Music and Dance,” and “Isn’t This a Lovely Day?”, paired with lavish 1930s-inspired costumes, glamorous Art Deco sets, big Astaire-and-Rogers–style tap routines, and a light-hearted, screwball romantic plot, the show delivers charm, nostalgia, and pure theatrical joy.
My Review of Top Hat The Musical
The set was incredible, built around a revolving Art Deco centrepiece that shifted scenes effortlessly while capturing the simple yet striking glamour of the 1930s. The dazzling costumes elevated that elegance even further, perfectly reflecting the era’s timeless style.
Sally Ann Triplett absolutely stole the show as Madge, delivering every line with razor-sharp wit and irresistible presence, while James Hume brought a wonderfully British blend of charm, humour and endearing cheesiness to Horace Hardwick.
Phillip Attmore as Jerry Travers and Amara Okereke as Dale Tremont had fantastic chemistry, creating a romance that felt both heartfelt and authentic. Some of their big numbers leaned more towards fabulous acting than the classic dance mastery of Astaire and Rogers, but it never detracted from the joy of the production.
Overall, Top Hat felt like a warm hug from a bygone era, uplifting, nostalgic, and bursting with energy. The audience clapped and cheered after every number, culminating in a fully deserved standing ovation.
Where Can I See Top Hat The Musical
You can see Top Hat The Musical at the Opera House, Tue 25 Nov – Sat 29 Nov 2025
And then at the King’s Theatre, Glasgow, Tue 3 Feb – Sat 7 Feb 2026
Disclaimer: I was gifted the tickets, but it is my decision whether to review. However, all opinions are my own. Check out where to park near the Opera House Manchester.
