Top Hat Taps into Wimbledon
Top Hat has tapped its way into New Wimbledon Theatre.
Phillip Attmore as Jerry and the ensemble
Based on the 1935 American comedy starring Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, Top Hat follows Jerry (Phillip Attmore), an American performer who moves to London to open a new show. However, his incessant need to tap dance annoys model Dale (played on this night by first cover Lindsay Atherton), who is staying in the apartment below him. Along with a colourful cast of characters, including the show’s producer Horace (James Hume), his extravagant wife Madge (Sally Ann Triplett), their butler Bates (James Clyde), and Dale’s fashion designer friend Alberto (Alex Gibson-Giorgio), a case of mistaken identity leads to plenty of comedy and chaos.
Amara Okereke as Dale and Phillip Attmore as Jerry
The first interesting fact to note is that this musical has a unique structure, with a 60-minute first act and a 75-minute second act. This meant that the first act felt particularly rushed and one-dimensional in terms of story and character development. There also seemed to be a lack of chemistry between our two leads, which became more understandable upon learning that this was Lindsay Atherton’s debut performance as Dale, a connection that will no doubt strengthen with time. Similarly, the sound during much of the first act was rather low throughout the theatre, meaning the audience had to lean into the story rather than being naturally drawn in. This resulted in a lack of connection and care for the characters we were following.
Amara Okereke as Dale and Phillip Attmore as Jerry
Luckily, the longer second act, with its improved pacing and sound quality, meant everything picked up. We were given more character development and delightful dramatic irony, which made the story far more engaging, especially thanks to the increased stage time for the side characters, who were the true highlights of the show.
Alex Gibson-Giorgio as Alberto and James Hume as Horace
The instant chemistry of the love-hate bromance between James Hume and James Clyde as Horace and his butler Bates was a joyous double act to watch in the first act, and it only grew stronger in the second. Alongside them, the love-hate relationship between Horace and his wife Madge, played by Sally Ann Triplett, added another layer of humour and warmth. The trio delivered witty one-liners and physical comedy with perfect timing, making them effortlessly charming whenever they took the stage. They truly stole the show.
James Clyde as Bates
While the first act of Top Hat takes a stumble, the charm, wit, and energy of the second act make it a feel-good, humorous night out that celebrates the golden age of musical theatre. It’s touring around the UK until February 2026.
Amara Okereke as Dale and Sally Ann Triplett as Madge
First Act: 3 stars
Second Act: 4 stars
Overall: 3.5 stars
Buy tickets here.
Phillip Attmore as Jerry and the ensemble
Gifted press tickets
Photo Credit: Johan Persson
