The 2026 production of Top Hat at Mayflower Theatre offers a visually striking return to the golden era of musical theatre.
It only takes the first few bars from the orchestra to know that the film is set firmly in the 1930’s. The instruments echo every musical of that era, and are even reminiscent of countless Tom & Jerry soundtracks! The unmistakable sound of clarinets and cornets.
Top Hat was inspired by the classic 1935 film and certainly delivers an evening filled with elegance, romance, and energetic dance numbers. With some numbers resulting in the stage crowded to capacity with tap dancers all moving in unison.
From the outset, the production shows its polished design. The sets are Art Deco in their design, encapsulating a world of luxury, while the costumes add a sense of glamour. Scene transitions are handled smoothly by the cast and the backstage team, allowing the story to move seamlessly between its various locations, from stylish hotels to the canals of Venice.
The music is, of course, one of the show’s strongest elements. Irving Berlin’s well-known songs are performed with enthusiasm and precision. Numbers like “Cheek to Cheek” and “Puttin’ on the Ritz” are obvious highlights. The orchestra is faultless, and the dance numbers are performed with style and confidence. The choreography, particularly in the ensemble tap routines, brings energy and excitement that the audience clearly loved.
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That said, the storyline itself is quite predictable and seems to be there simply to link the songs together. The plot, which revolves around mistaken identity and the protagonist's romantic aspirations, is a well-trodden path for the era. The story does lack some depth, but there are some delightful comedy moments, particularly from James Hume’s Horace Hardwick. He plays the role in an almost Basil Fawlty way. The jokes may be corny, but Hume’s comic timing is skilled, and he always gets the laugh.
Despite the narrative's shortcomings, Top Hat succeeds in delivering exactly what it promises: a light, entertaining, nostalgic spectacle. Rather than reinventing a classic, the production leans into timeless musical theatre.
Overall, the entire production is awash with talent. The work that must have gone into the choreography is genuinely breathtaking. For lovers of musicals of this era, Top Hat really is a treat.
Review by: Peter Nicholson
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