WAVES of energy and enthusiasm crash on the bow of the SS American and engulf the audience, as this stunningly athletic and expertly choreographed production of Anything Goes sets sail.

The Cole Porter jazz musical, which has undergone a number of re-writes in its 74-year history, tells the story of Billy Crocker, a lovestruck stockbroker who stows away on the England-bound ship in an effort to win the heart of Hope Harcourt, the bashful daughter of a once-wealthy US family fallen on hard times. In the process, he hopes to block Hope's marriage to fiancé Lord Evelyn Oakleigh - all before the Lord's beloved Blighty comes into view on the horizon.

All hands on the Gala deck deliver polished performances.

Ben Starr (Billy Crocker) lives up to his name, while Hannah Craine (Reno Sweeney) dominates and commands the stage with the assurance of a veteran.

Joel Bubbers' mastery of the blank expression, used to portray the many struggles of fish-out-ofwater Lord Oakleigh, is hilarious.

At almost two-and-a-half hours, this entertainment overflows with comedy, leaving the supportive audience having thoroughly enjoyed their voyage.

At times, the cast was let down by sound problems and some attempts to modernise the show seemed unnecessary and forced.

However, the cast have an engaging nature which irresistibly pulls you in. They are clearly having a lot of fun. Their audiences will, too.

* Until Saturday. There is a also matinee performance on Saturday. Tickets range from £8- £14. Box office 0191-332-4041.