TITANIC the Musical is currently docking at the Lowry.

It describes one of the worst nautical disasters of all time when, on her maiden voyage from Southampton to New York, the "unsinkable" ship collided with an iceberg.

Consequently, she sank taking with her the lives of 1,517 men, women and children.

The people we meet in third class, second class and first class cabins all dream of a vacation or new life in the United States of America and we get to know many of them based on actual passengers and crew.

The show contains music and lyrics by Maury Yeston, whose words and notes reflect the essence of the tragic tale.

A 25-strong cast swap roles to play passengers and others.

One song, featuring Niall Sheehy as Barrett the stoker, reflects an actual message sent by his real-life counterpart to his belle in England.

It is impossible to single out individuals but the cast set the highest standard.

Their singing and dancing is perfect and they capture the early, optimistic parts of the journey before the brave attempts by all aboard to deal with a tragedy.

Unfortunately, although it is mentioned, we don’t see the band playing as the ship goes down which could have been one of the most moving moments.

But there is a band below stage which plays throughout with great expression without overwhelming the singers’ voices.

Generally, the music adds rather than detracts to the emotional effect especially when it comes to the opening and closing number God Speed Titanic.

* Titanic the Musical, is at the Lowry, Salford Quays until Saturday. Tickets from 0843 208 6010 or book online at thelowry.com/musicals. Star rating: * * * *