Hello, Dolly!, Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, until Saturday February 9.

Eighties TV stars and a rock legend were among the unusually glitzy audience at Wolverhampton's Grand Theatre for the official launch of the new UK tour of Hello, Dolly! after a 20 year absence.

As the star of the show Anita Dobson's husband, Queen guitarist Brian May headed the celebrity pack who turned out to support the cast.

And, with as many famous faces in the audience as on stage, the Wolverhampton crowd seemed a little star-struck as they rubbed shoulders with magician Paul Daniels and his wife Debbie McGee, Allo, Allo stars Gordon Kaye and Sue Hodge and stalwart actress Sally Anne Field.

Based on the 1969 movie musical starring Barbara Streisand, Michael Crawford and Walter Matthau, Hello, Dolly! is set in turn of the 20th Century America and tells the story of matchmaker Dolly Levi's efforts to get the city of New York's residents paired off.

With more than 40 dancers and musicians, the West End company did a fantastic job of recreating the magic of the classic film.

And the numerous stunning sets - including a life-sized train - and lavish costumes brought New York city vividly to life.

Former Eastenders star Anita Dobson's Dolly Levi was witty and larger than life - just as she should be. Her characterisation was spot-on and she has great comic timing. Unfortunately, due to inevitable comparisons to Ms Streisand, the limitations of Ms Dobson's voice were at times jarring.

Seasoned theatre peformer Darren Day put in an impressive turn as Cornelius Hackl. His portrayal of the bumbling but ultimately loveable head clerk was perfect. He has a lovely singing voice - especially in It Only Takes a Moment - which was only matched by the dulcet tones of Louise English as his sweetheart Irene Molloy. Ms English is a solid all-round performer and was well cast in this role.

Hamilton Sargeant, as the naive Barnaby Tucker, proved himself to be a fantastic mover, especially in Dancing' - and David McAlister (formerly Hollyoaks' villain Dennis Richardson) did a good job as the cantankerous Horace Vandergelder.

Stand-out songs included Put On Your Sunday Clothes, Elegance and It Only Takes a Moment and the Waiter's Gallop, performed with perfect precision by the fantastic male dancers, had the best choreography.

The legendary Brian May led the standing ovation as the cast took their final bow - and with an endorsement like that you'd better catch this sparkling production while you can.

Performances of Hello, Dolly! take place daily until Saturday February 9 from Thursday until Saturday at 7.30pm with a 2.30pm matinee on Saturday and a 2pm matinee on Sunday. Tickets are priced £13.50 to £31.50. Concessions are available.

Call the Lichfield Street box office on 01902 429212 or go online at www.grandtheatre.co.uk to book.