MUSICALS don't get much better than this faultless production currently sailing breezily on a UK tour.

After a sell-out run in London it has now docked into a welcoming Liverpool before it returns to the capital for a seven-week season at the Barbican where it was launched.

Anything Goes is an utterly delightful (with a capital D) joy from the smooth start to a fabulous finale and there's plenty to enjoy in between in a super-slick, two-and-a-half-hour spectacular show set on an impressive two-tier deck ship set.

A 50-strong cast - including tap-dancing sailors and a jaunty crew - also has a feast of famous names on board who all look - individually and collectively - as though they are relishing a working holday.

We also have a full, live orchestra making splendid waves throughout each classic number and razor-sharp routine.

The cast features Simon Callow (Elisha Whitney), Denis Lawson (Moonface Martin), Bonnie Langford (Evangeline Harcourt) and there's the shining, outstanding Kerry Ellis (Reno Sweeney) who leaves you breathless with her boundless energy and sparkle.

It's easy to see why Kerry was such a big hit in Wicked. West End star Samuel Edwards of Les Mis fame is also a great team players as Billy Crocker with a cracking voice and stage persona.

No need to take too much notice of the plot - it's one of those screwball comedies that Hollywood is renowned for - a marvellous mix of farce, song and dance and visual and verbal humour.

Characters are all pieces in a jolly jigsaw voyage where we meet love-lorn couples, rich society types, gangsters and a few cute canines.

It's directed by multi-award winning Broadway choreographer Kathleen Marshal who has created an unforgettable piece of feel good, escapism entertainment.

And there's Cole Porter's timeless score from I Get a Kick out of You to You're The Top, It's de-Lovely and a stunning Blow, Gabriel, Blow with beautful costumes as a bonus.

There are some lovely comic moments between Billy and Moonface reminiscent of Morecambe and Wise.

Simon Callow's portrayal of myopic Elisha is a masterclass in timing.

A 100 per cent, top-notch musical.

I urge you to be a stowaway ... now.

Everythg goes!

Globe verdict: Five stars - a 24-carat cruise

Anything Goes is at the Liverpool Empire until April 30.

Tickets from the box office on 0844 871 7615