There are masterpieces that have stayed too long in the shadows that truly deserve the light of dozens of spotlights. This spring, the Théâtre du Châtelet is dusting off one of them: Top Hat. And if its title doesn’t ring a bell, one of its iconic songs, “Cheek to Cheek” will probably sound familiar. From April 15 to May 3, 2026, grab your top hats and let yourself be swept away into a delightful American musical adventure… right in the heart of Paris.
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1) A cinematic masterpiece that finally shines on stage
If Top Hat is revealed in all its glory on the boards of the Châtelet in 2026, it's actually on screen, more than 90 years ago, that this story of love and misunderstandings first came to life. In 1935, director Mark Sandrich made a mark on the film world by introducing a legendary duo: Fred Astaire as Jerry Travers and Ginger Rogers as Dale Tremont.
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©Andrew Perry
We had to wait until 2013 for this story to be adapted for the first time into a musical in a London West End theater. And now, Paris has the delightful opportunity to host this production, based on a book by Matthew White and Howard Jacques, and directed by Kathleen Marshall.
2) A timeless story that still works wonders
Indeed, the theme is far from the most contemporary: Jerry Travers (Philipp Attmore), a true star in the United States and an inveterate charmer, travels to London to perform in a new show. He doesn’t expect his heart to flutter for Dale Tremont (Nicole-Lily Baisden), whom he meets after a nighttime dance in his guesthouse.
But the beautiful one isn’t so easily fooled, especially since, not knowing the name of the one who is courting her, she won't hesitate to mix him up with Horace, her producer….jpg)
©Andrew Perry
And yet, the magic works — with great flair. Humor and misunderstandings weave seamlessly with love stories, in a perfectly balanced harmony. The skillful use of repetitive comedy keeps the audience captivated by the story, alongside the acting and singing performances that make it seem like the actors have owned these roles forever. The second part of the show, which transports us to Italy, gives new momentum to the narrative with the arrival of the sparkling Madge Harwick, brilliantly performed by Emma Williams. The knots untangle, the tongues loosen, and exaggeration dances with the burlesque. The result is indeed present: if the lights... ;If the lights had not come back on, the applause would surely have lasted for long minutes.
3) Choreographies that stay etched in our memories
If I had to choose just one reason, it might be this one. The voices are grand, but without the dance, Top Hat would not exist. From the very first minutes, the tap dancing resonates with striking precision, immediately setting the tone and rhythm of the show.
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In constant dialogue with the orchestra — under the baton of Matthew Spalding — the choreographies unfold with unparalleled lightness, carried by sumptuous costumes with a polished aesthetic, plunging us into a timeless atmosphere.
4) An immersive and dazzling set design
Could we be any more captivated by this circular set design reminiscent of a backdrop worthy of The Great Gatsby? Certainly not. Through its designs, Peter McKintosh pays homage to the original film and the 1930s, while infusing it with a modernity that captures the eye throughout every moment of the 2 hours and 40 minutes of the show. The prominent use of gold and vibrant colors echoes both Jerry's success and the flamboyant personalities of each character.
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©Johan Persson
From the United States to Italy, passing through the United Kingdom, the scene is constantly changing: hotel room, stage set, Venetian palace… The objects brought in and the rotating movements of the stage fully immerse us in this elegant and swirling universe. We come out amazed, with a single desire: to dance.
Top Hat
Theatre du Chatelet
1, place du Chatelet — 4th
Until May 3, 2026
More info