PERFECT showman Tommy Steele can still draw in the crowds at almost 79 years of age.

The first thing well worth mentioning is that the light-footed, cheeky chappie with a stage presence few younger men can boast is good for his age — in fact he is excellent for his age so do not expect a watered-down version of the cockney smiling star who burst onto the rock and roll music scene in the 1950s.

Although he is playing the part of a young Glenn Miller it is simple enough for the audience to suspend belief — with Steele's physical appearance and mental stamina it really did not prove to be a problem at all.

We start the story where it ends with Glenn Miller heading off on the fateful plane journey from which he would never be found.

Then we are taken through his early musical career, marriage and subsequent rise to fame, thanks to Steele's clever narration.

What a singing voice the man still has and what a professional he is! Surrounded by excellent dancers and singers and an orchestra Miller himself would have been proud of what was there not to like?

I took my parents and sister to celebrate dad's 80th birthday and it is fair to say that many audience members were in the same age bracket as dad and, indeed, Tommy Steele.

But younger theatre-goers also filled the seats of Blackpool's Opera House and that is because the music is timeless. We all know favourites such as "In the Mood" and "Moonlight Serenade" so this really is a show for all ages.

My parents met at the Winter Gardens in Blackpool, danced to the sound of big bands there and now can add The Glenn Miller Story to their memories.

The Glenn Miller Story can be seen at Blackpool Opera House, The Winter Gardens, Blackpool until Saturday (October 10). For tickets visit www.wintergardensblackpool.co.uk

Gayle McBain