I HAVE seen Chicago the musical many times and with every touring show the stars stamp their mark on this beautifully-crafted and stylised story set in the Illinois of the roaring 20s.

But this is without doubt the sexiest, slickest and most dazzling version I have been lucky enough to see.

Chicago is based on real life events when nightclub singer Roxie Hart shot her lover.

In jail she meets double murderess Velma Kelly. And enter lawyer Billy Flynn.

It oozes sensuality; it sparkles with striking individual performers and ensemble choreography.

The singing is stunning and the sense of humour first rate throughout.

Everyone involved looks as though they are having a ball including the on-stage 11-piece orchestra.

There are the leading performers, too, all of whom have made their name in soaps.

Jessie Wallace as Matron Momma Morton who belts out numbers with real passion and lawyer Billy Flynn is courtesy of John Partridge, another EastEnders star, clearly so comfortable in this genre And vibrant Velma Kelly is played by slinky Sophie Carmen-Jones.

A great night out with a faultless company.

The show ends its Liverpool Empire run on Saturday.

Tickets from the box office on 0844 871 3017.