Top Hat - New Wimbledon Theatre

The elegance and wit of Irving Berlin’s Top Hat are stepping back into the spotlight with a new nationwide tour. First adapted for the stage in 2011, this musical reimagining of the 1935 Hollywood classic — complete with additional orchestration by Chris Walker — continues to capture audiences with its blend of romance, humour, and irresistible rhythm. 

The story follows the dashing Broadway dancer Jerry Travers as he travels to London to open a new show — only to find himself entangled in a delightful case of mistaken identity with the glamorous model Dale Tremont. Set to Irving Berlin’s timeless songs, including Cheek to Cheek, Let’s Face the Music and Dance, and Puttin’ on the Ritz, this is a world where romance, wit, and tap shoes reign supreme.

The Chichester Festival Theatre is an institution in this country's theatrical culture, fostering many a brilliant revival in the past few years - namely Crazy For You (which enjoyed an altogether successful, albeit fleeting sojourn at the Gillian Lynne Theatre back in 2023), and more recently, Matthew Bourne's production of Oliver!. Top Hat, on the other hand, seems to follow a different business model as it sets off on tour before enjoying a Christmas season in London later this year.

Credit: Johan Persson

Taking such a technically demanding musical on the road is no small feat. Touring productions face unique logistical hurdles, from set transitions to venue acoustics. This reviewer attended the first night at this particular theatre — as critics often do — and while one expects minor teething issues early in a run, what stood out most was not a problem per se, but a question of balance. From the back of the stalls, the orchestra’s sound occasionally felt underpowered. Though the musicians played beautifully and the arrangements sparkled, the volume was such that some of Berlin’s rich orchestrations didn’t quite fill the space. It’s a minor quibble, perhaps a matter of taste, but in a musical so defined by its score, one longed to be swept away by the full force of the music.

Point of personal preference aside, despite the difficulties associated with touring productions, this show hits every mark set. The book, though not the most modern of works, is humorous and provides the lighthearted entertainment one certainly needs as we approach the cold winter months. 

Leading lady Lindsay Atherton, taking on the role of Dale Tremont for the first time, was a delight to watch. She approached the part with elegance and composure, her comic timing sharp and her vocals rich with emotion. Better Luck Next Time was a genuine standout moment — delivered with such sincerity and warmth that it left a lasting impression. While no debut performance is ever entirely without nerves or minor imperfections, Atherton’s grace and musical intelligence shone through at every turn.

Credit: Johan Persson

In a show as dance-heavy as Top Hat, the ensemble truly forms the heartbeat of the production — and what a heartbeat it is. Their precision, stamina, and sheer joy in performance were infectious. From intricate tap sequences to sweeping ballroom numbers, they moved as one, embodying both the glamour and the wit of 1930s musical theatre. Even in moments where synchronization momentarily wavered, the energy and commitment never faltered. It’s a testament to their professionalism that the ensemble managed to make technically demanding choreography look both effortless and exuberant. Their chemistry elevated every scene, reminding the audience that this kind of musical magic relies not only on its stars, but on the collective artistry of the entire company.

If Top Hat falls just shy of perfection, it is only because of minor technical quibbles rather than any lack of heart or craft. What this production achieves is no small feat: it revives a classic with both reverence and vitality, honouring Irving Berlin’s golden melodies while bringing a renewed sparkle to the stage. From the poised leading performances to the outstanding ensemble work, this is a show that radiates joy, precision, and an infectious sense of old-fashioned glamour. With a touch more polish — particularly in its sound balance — this Top Hat could easily ascend from delightful to dazzling. As it stands, it remains a sumptuous evening of escapist entertainment that leaves audiences floating, quite literally, “cheek to cheek.”

Production Value: 70

Value For Money: 70

Personal Enjoyment: 80

Overall Score: 73% - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️(4*)

(AD | Ticket gifted in exchange for an honest review)

Show Information

Venue: New Wimbledon Theatre, London Playing until: 18th October 2025, before moving on to the next venue

Run Time: 2h30 - including a 20-minute interval

Tickets for this venue, and all subsequent touring venues, can be found starting at £15. Click the link here to book online for the Wimbledon Venue.