The Verdict: A Tap-Dancing Triumph
Chichester Festival Theatre’s production of Top Hat has arrived at the Mayflower Theatre, and it is a masterclass in escapism. From the opening notes of Irving Berlin’s legendary score, the production delivers two and a half hours of “pure, concentrated joy” that captures the glamour of 1930s Hollywood.
The Stars: Phillip Attmore (Jerry Travers) and Nicole-Lily Baisden (Dale Tremont) anchor the show with electric chemistry. Attmore’s precision in the impromptu hotel-room tap routine is matched perfectly by Baisden’s breathtaking elegance.
The Choreography: Directed and choreographed by Kathleen Marshall, the dance numbers are the heartbeat of the show. Whether it’s the iconic Cheek to Cheek or the grandiose Puttin’ on the Ritz, the ensemble moves with a “crisp, perfectly-timed” grace that would make Astaire and Rogers proud.
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Design & Atmosphere: High-Glitz Glamour
The production values at the Mayflower are nothing short of spectacular:
Visuals: The set design transitions seamlessly from the foggy streets of London to a sun-drenched, Art Deco Venice.
Costumes: A whirlwind of feathers, sequins, and silks that add a layer of mesmerizing beauty to every swirl on stage.
The Comedy: The “delightfully silly” mistaken-identity plot is handled with superb comic timing, ensuring the laughs land as neatly as the tap shoes.
Coming Soon to Southampton
The Mayflower’s spring season continues to heat up with several high-profile shows on the horizon:
Ballet First: An award-winning ballet is set to make its Southampton debut later this month.
Family Fun: Julia Donaldson’s Zog will be flying onto the stage later this spring.
Future Favorites: Looking ahead, the Live Aid musical is confirmed to conclude its major UK tour at the Mayflower in 2027.
“If you are looking for an evening of pure escapism and world-beating tap dancing, this is it. Top Hats off to the entire cast and crew.” > — Ian Crump, Mayflower Theatre Review