"Company" by Central Musical Theatre Company.

Duchess Theatre, Long Eaton.

Here is a musical that has always eluded me, so I could not wait to tick this one my list of unseen classics of musical theatre.

From musical theatre's most renowned composer, "Company" is largely regarded as a trailblazer of the dark-comedy, modern-musical genre and the winner of 7 Tony Awards including Best Musical, Best Score, Best Lyrics and Best Book.

On the night of his 35th birthday, confirmed bachelor Robert contemplates his unmarried state. Over the course of a series of dinners, drinks, and even a wedding, his friends, Joanne and Larry, Peter and Susan, Harry and Sarah, David and Jenny, and Paul and Amy explain the pro's and con's of taking on a spouse. The habitually single Robert is forced to question his adamant retention of bachelorhood during an array of interactions.

"Company" features a brilliantly brisk and energetic score containing many of Stephen Sondheim's best-known songs. The strength of the piece lies in its vivid, yet real characters, meaning impressive technical aspects aren't necessary to convey the story. Every audience member will see reflections of themselves in at least one of the characters on stage.

The soundtrack contains "You Could Drive a Person Crazy", "Being Alive", "Side By Side By Side", "Marry Me A Little", "Getting Married Today" and of course "The Ladies Who Lunch" among other Sondheim gems. All brought to life by Musical Director Nigel Taylor and conducted by Morris Fisher with the nine-piece orchestra.

The Central Musical Theatre Company are one of the strongest musical ensemble groups around, and this musical, highlights that fact.

The choreography is great fun with flashes back to the 1960's, and the work of Abbi Burns, who also stepped in at the last minute to play Jenny as Laura Jones was taken ill just before the weekend. Abbi had just four days to perfect her part and learn the script. Hopefully it's nothing serious for Laura and wish her a speedy recovery.

I used the word "ensemble" and this company were incredibly tight. I am showing my age now but if you can remember how tight the sound for the George Mitchell Minstrels had, then this was similar. Beautifully layered vocals which had clarity as well as vocal power, and incredibly tuneful.

Sondheim was an absolute master of song and his style is recognisable, and "Company" flags up that Sondheim style.

The cast are Tom Stanley (Bobby), Lorna Kirkland (Joanne) who gives a brilliant rendition of "The Ladies Who Lunch", Adrian Redfern (Larry), Craig Arme (Paul), Rachael Wyatt (Amy) - who did an amazing job of the song "Getting Married Today", Dave Partridge (Harry), Alison Hope (Sarah), Dean Osborn (Peter), Helen Oldham (Susan), Gary Heap (David), Abbi Burns (Jenny). Playing Bobby's girlfriends are Becky Pearcy (Kathy), Sarah Towle (Marta) and Rachael-Louisa Bray (April). Kathryn Fitchett, Rex Portillano, Sarah Sherrington and Greg Tabberrer make up the ensemble.

To add to the mentioned songs above, I must give a mention to Dave, Gary and Adrian for a sublime rendition of "Sorry Grateful" and a brilliant retro tinged "You Could Drive A Person Crazy" by Louisa, Becky and Sarah.

Choreography wise, my highlight would have to be "Side By Side By Side/What Would We Do Without You", which was pure Hollywood.

There is also a wonderfully choreographed comedy piece involving Alison, Dave and Tom in a display of karate comedy, choreographed by Rex.

I loved the split-level set design by Chris Margett and the wonderful video backdrops.

The Sound Design by Harry Greatorex was spot on, as was the Lighting Design by Stephen Greatorex.

I tried very hard to find something that I could fault about this production, and I failed. A smooth production with great sound and light, magical Sondheim songs delivered with ease and great style by a company of talented actors and singers.

"Company" is at The Duchess Theatre in Long Eaton until Saturday 26 February.