Theatre Review: High Society at the Alexandra Theatre Birmingham
AD: This Press Night Review refers to the 2026 Touring Production of High Society at the Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham*
My grandad’s selection of film musicals was legendary. As a kid I’d choose one of the leather-bound cases, pop in the VHS and settle down to watch a classic. And one of my favourites was the Cole Porter musical “High Society”. I wanted to look like Grace Kelly, and marry Frank Sinatra. I wanted a boat that was “yah”. And I wanted to go to an elegant and swellegant party. So I hoped that the Press Night performance of this new adaptation would be “sensational (that’s all)”
This stage production is based on the 1956 movie, which in itself was an adaptation of 1940 comedy “The Philadelphia Story” (based on a Broadway play) starring Katherine Hepburn, James Stewart and Cary Grant. It took 30 years for High Society to be adapted for the stage; this revival production debuted at the Barbican in London last year.
It’s the story of beautiful socialite Tracy Lord, embarking on her second marriage to uptight George. Her ex-husband C.K Dexter Haven has returned though, and undercover reporters Mike and Liz are “secretly” covering the nuptials in return for supressing a scandalous story on the bride’s father Seth. It’s the eve of her wedding, but Tracy is not sure if she’s marrying the right man. And there are plenty of distractions, disruptions and drama before her final decision is made.
Helen George beautifully portrays spoiled Tracy (aka Samantha) gently revealing her many layers as an intelligent young woman, bored of being stifled and seen as just another privileged wife. She sizzles when paired with Julian Ovenden, playing old flame Dexter Haven. Freddie Fox and Carly Mercedes Dyer shine as Mike and Liz; you can see the unrequited love shining in lovelorn Dyer’s eyes, whilst charismatic Fox moons after the bride-to-be.
The principal characters all bring their own characterisations to the role rather than trying to fill the immense shoes of Frank Sinatra, Bing Crosby, Grace Kelly and Celeste Holm. Fox in particular – such an odious character in Apple TV’s “Slow Horses” – is a revelation in his musical theatre debut. But it’s truly an ensemble piece, with Nigel Lindsay putting in a hilarious turn as gin-soaked Uncle Willie, providing the vocals on the showstopping “Now You Have Jazz” number which closes the first act. Josefina Gabrielle also stands out as a scene-stealing Margaret Lord.
The soundtrack differs slightly from the film but other Cole Porter numbers are introduced to expand the score. And mostly they fit as if they were always part of the story. Carly Mercedes Dyer provides a standout performance of “I’ve Got You Under My Skin”. Nostalgic favourites including “Who Wants To Be A Millionaire”, “True Love” and “Well, Did You Evah!” remain, the latter providing a fun second act opener between Ovenden and Fox, perfectly echoing the performance in the film.
It’s always lovely to see every inch of the Alexandra’s stage used, thanks to Rachel Kavanaugh’s direction. The set looks incredibly stylish thanks to Tom Roger’s decadent design and Howard Hudson’s stunning lighting. The endlessly long table laden with lavish wedding gifts is a treat, as is the ingenious poolside scene. And let’s give a moment of applause for that fairy-light strewn tree that descends from the rafters 😍
The choreography is captivating, particularly in the group numbers. “Now You Have Jazz” and “Let’s Misbehave” are particularly exhausting and energetic highlights. Both sequences are executed flawlessly, with the entire 14-strong cast onstage – and even the addition of a six-piece jazz ensemble for the Act One closer.
The light-hearted comedy fizzes delicately like champagne bubbles. There’s mistaken identity, scandalous secrets, characters pretending to be people they’re not, and others pretending not to love people they do. It’s a fun farce, light on plot but heavy on screwball romantic comedy and it’s an entertaining couple of hours where you don’t need to use too many brain cells. All in all, we had a ball, cause this production of High Society is indeed sensational.
High Society is at the Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham until Saturday 22nd August 2026. Purchase your tickets here. The UK Tour continues until November 2026; for a full list of dates, visit the official High Society Musical website.
📷 Pamela Raith Photography
*Why is this post marked AD? I was invited to attend Press Night in exchange for an honest review. You can trust that I will always be honest and truthful on A Brummie Home and Abroad, and being an invited guest will not influence my opinion in any way.
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