It’s 65 years since the original production of Guys And Dolls hit Broadway, running for 1,200 performances and snapping up five Tony Awards, including best musical.

And with its dazzling dance sequences, catchy tunes and stunning set, it’s no wonder this 1950 musical comedy has stood the test of time.

The production, directed by Gordon Greenberg, shows a murkier side to the bright lights and glamour of New York’s Times Square – a world of gambling.

The show, running at Liverpool’s Empire Theatre until Saturday, March 19, opens with a lively dance number set under Peter McKintosh’s impressive arch of advertising boards edged with a New York skyline depicted by lights.

We’re then introduced to Nathan Detroit (played by Maxwell Caulfield) who is intent on setting up another Crap game (a dice rolling contest to you and I), but needs to find somewhere and the funds to host it away from the gaze of the cops – and disapproving fiancee of 14 years Miss Adelaide (Louise Dearman).

Guys and Dolls has brought its UK tour at the Liverpool Empire
Guys and Dolls has brought its UK tour at the Liverpool Empire

Intent on rescuing this group of gamblers from themselves is the Save Our Soul Mission featuring Sarah Brown (Anna O’Byrne) a straight-laced church-goer who never touches alcohol- that is until she meets Sky Masterson (Richard Fleeshman).

These four lead characters each hold their own throughout the show.

Fleeshman oozes charm with his captivating and polished interpretation of Sky Masterson worthy of any rat pack.

O’Byrne showcases her powerful operatic tones and plays a convincing drunk in the vibrant Havana bar scene choreographed by Carlos Acosta and Andrew Wright.

Combine this with punchy set pieces including Sit Down, You’re Rockin’ the Boat and the more well-known Luck Be A Lady and you’ve got an enjoyable theatrical performance that’s well worth a watch while it’s in town.