Top Hat

Anyone who loves musicals and films has “Top Hat” in the list of their favourites. The film starring Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers with the unforgettable music by Irving Berlin never fails to entertain. In the world of amateur theatre you will not find many members willing to take on the roles of Fred and Ginger but step up Harry Simkin and Fiona Winning. New to many of the audience I am sure it is not the last time we will hear their names or see them in leading roles, and not just on the amateur stage.  They were supported by a strong cast of South Staffs members Roger Stokes (Horace Hardwick), Nikki Rai (Madge Hardwick), Dom Napier (Alberto), John Wiley (Bates) playing leading roles and other members of the company covering the other cast parts, in some cases even playing more than one small role. The strength of societies is determined by the versatility of its members and there was no shortage of this in South Staffs. Everyone fully supporting Harry and Fiona in their demanding roles.

A lively overture from the orchestra promised that we would be entertained and we were. Dance number followed dance number and we were transported to the glory days of the Hollywood musical. Comedy came in the performances of Dom Napier and Roger Stokes.

This is a show all about dancers and dancing and as we all know good dancers, and especially men tappers, are hard to find. The Company, very effectively, solved some of the problem,  using their girl tappers dressed in top hat, white tie and tails.    

The show of course centred around Fred and Ginger and in these roles Harry and Fiona sang, tapped and danced their way into the hearts of the audience. Looking every inch the elegant couple of an age now past they brought memories flooding back and at times you could hear the audience quietly humming the well-known music. Add to this the lovely sparkling costumes, efficient stage management and you have the ingredients for a happy audience and an entertaining night at the theatre.    

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