Top Hat

I was very excited that my first official show visit as Regional Rep for Region 4 was to see the Scottish Amateur premier of Irving Berlin’s Top Hat the Musical in the beautiful Ayr Gaiety Theatre.  The show really was a true celebration of the 1930s style, music and romance.  With lots of well know songs featuring in the overture, I was swaying in my seat from the start which continued in the car journey home with the soundtrack on.  The electric energy in the opening number Puttin’ on the Ritz, including the full ensemble of dancers and chorus tapping, set the tone for the rest of the show and introduced us to the leading man, Broadway sensation, Jerry Travers, played fabulously by Adam Dawson.  Adam’s charm, twinkle in his eye and effortless dancing engaged the audience instantly.  This allowed us to easily follow his story as he danced his way across Europe to win the heart of society girl Dale Tremont, beautifully portrayed by Pauline Ferguson.  Pauline balanced Dale’s spirited character with graceful dancing perfectly.  Pauline and Adam dancing together in the well know numbers including ‘Cheek to Cheek’ and ‘Let’s Face the Music and Dance’ were key highlights of the show and their character’s relationship progressing from the comical misunderstandings in conversations to the more romantic scenes was a joy to watch.  The flip side to this romantic relationship development, is the more turbulent one of Madge and Horace Hardwick.  The bumbling and nervous character of Horace, who’s nerves grew more around his wife, the resilient, confident and glamorous Madge, were captured perfectly by Graeme Strawthorn and Olive Lindsay.  During this journey, we also meet other key players; the eccentric fashion designer Alberto Beddini, played by Colin McDonald and Butler turned Spy Master Bates, played by Allan Ward.  Both had the audience in the palm of their hands with impeccable comic performances.  The image of Colin in his vest and red boxer shorts and Allan in his many costumes, especially the dress will be memorable for many I am sure.  As the story unfolds it is evolved by the introduction of an abundance of other characters played brilliantly by many of the ensemble, too many to mention individually, but all excellent.  A special mention to Mhairi McCrindle for her hilarious spot on comical timing as Phyllis the Stage Manager.  Each member of the principal cast, ensemble and crew worked well together to produce this uplifting and hilarious romantic comedy.  Huge congratulations to the entire club on a fantastic production.

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