Packed with escapist glitz and glamour, 42nd Street was the perfect antidote to post-Wall Street Crash gloom - and it stil packs an optimistic punch for today's theatre-goers.

Wolverhampton's Grand Theatre is playing host to this timeless tale of Peggy Sawyer's meteoric rise from chorus girl to Broadway star.

With a sing-along, Tony award-winning score and exceptional choreography, 42nd Street is surely the holy grail for musicals fans.

The sets and costumes, direct from the show's Broadway run, are spectacular but it is the astounding dance moves, executed in perfect unison, which make this show stand out from the crowd.

In terms of stage presence, the fabulous Shirley Jameson as voice coach Maggie Jones, stole the show. This brilliant character actress commanded the stage with her impressively powerful singing voice, particularly in Shuffle off to Buffalo and Go Into Your Dance.

Julia J Nagle was delightful as fading musicals star Dorothy Brock who stuck her tongue firmly in her cheek to play the spoilt diva.

Jessica Punch as the likeable Peggy Sawyer and Ashley Nottingham as Billy Lawlor were exceptional in the dance numbers. Jessica, in particular, impressed as she breezed through back-to-back routines at breakneck speed - and never looked tired. And despite a rather camp portrayal of heart throb Billy, Ashley proved he's got rhythm - that boy can dance!

Biled as the show's star, musicals veteran Paul Nicholas disappointed as show director Julian Marsh. Although convincing as the formidable director, Paul's singing voice let him down. His gravelly versions of the show's best-known numbers - including 42nd Street and Lullaby of Broadway - did not do them justice.

However, the orchestra were note-perfect throughout and We're in the Money was the ideal showcase for the ensemble of dancers' exceptional timing.

Performances take place Tuesday March 13 to Saturday March 24 at 7.30pm with matinees at 2.30pm on Wednesday March 21, Thursday March 22, Saturday March 17 and Saturday March 24.

A Mother's Day matinee will take place on Sunday March 18 at 2.30pm.

There will be a sign language interpreted performance on Tuesday March 20 at 7.30pm.

Tickets priced £7.50-£31.50 can be bought in person at the Lichfield Street Box Office, by calling 01902 429212 or online at www.grandtheatre.co.uk. Theatre gift vouchers are also available.