Top Hat The Musical, based on the classic Fred Astaire film of the 30s, is entrancing viewers at the Lowry with its beautiful music and comedy.
The story, adapted for the stage by Mathew White and Howard Jacques, focuses on the love story between charismatic performer Jerry Travers (played by Phillip Attmore) and the strong Dale Tremont (played by Nicole-Lily Baisden), who, through a case of mistaken identity, have struggles in their relationship.
Attmore’s perfectly captures the smooth-talking, charming Hollywood star Jerry Travers, and his dancing is magnetic. There really is not much to fault in Attmore’s portrayal. Not to be outdone, Baisden matches Attmore’s energy, putting in an incredible performance. She captures the plucky but fierce Dale Tremont with style.
Along with the two main stars, the supporting characters put in stellar performances—particularly Zak Edwards as Alberto Beddini, who was a late casting change. Edwards played the eccentric Italian fashion designer with enough panache to fill a theatre.
The set itself was beautifully designed. With an intricate backdrop and lighting effects used to make the audience feel as though they had been transported. You felt like you were in the scene, a feeling only reserved for the best theatrical performances.
Along with the amazing core cast and beautiful set design, a wonderful ensemble played a massive part in the performance. Each dance was choreographed and performed to perfection. Truly a faultless display of musical talent.
Some of the songs were perhaps drawn out, most notably at the end of the first act. By no means dull, it was a slow end to what had otherwise been a tremendously fast-paced story.
Despite this, Top Hat The Musical is well worth a watch for any theater goer and particularly fans of the original Fred Astaire film.
★★★★★
