Where: The Salberg at Salisbury Playhouse

When: Until Jan 17

IT’S winter and the weather is chilly, grey and wet, as a downpour almost obscures the city skyline – so how about a spot of escapism? Whether you choose to travel by air, sea, rail or road, there’s opportunity to enjoy the trip. Just settle into your seat at the Salberg, Salisbury Playhouse’s intimate studio theatre, and relax with a great selection of song and dance rhythms, all geared to travel.

A stack of suitcases sets the mood even before the four accomplished performers launch into a magical musical cavalcade that includes fine instrumental numbers.

The luggage is transformed into benches, walls, a National Express coach, and even a sun lounger. Raincoats are discarded in favour of holiday garb, and bright beach towels are hauled out of cases.

The show, devised by director Adam Lenson and Gareth Machin with musical arranger Glyn Kerslake, features stunning performances by Natasha Brown, Elaine Glover, Matthew Harvey and Glyn Kerslake Come Fly With Me is a promising professional debut for Natasha Brown, who recently gained First Class Honours in Musical Theatre.

The show has sunshine, nostalgia, joie de vivre, a zest for faraway places and a yearning for home. A destination is never a place, rather a new way of looking at things.

One may dream of getting away, Somewhere Over the Rainbow, urging companions to Let’s Get Away From It All and reflecting on chances to explore this Wonderful World.

Travels to Paris, Copenhagen, Bangkok, Africa, Buenos Aires, America – including Kansas City and New York – are all designed to delight. Slick choreography is by Polly Bennett and lighting by Dave Marsh.

Mention of the less enjoyable preparations for travel are not neglected. “Lay out the clothes and the money: then pack half the clothes and twice the money!”

There is a hilarious version of Gilbert & Sullivan’s I’ve Got A Little List (from the Mikado), and Elaine Glover’s brilliant (pre-take off) rendition of The Plane is Going Down.

Lonely Planet’s 10 most desirable cities, worldwide, to visit in 2015 includes Salisbury. While you’re there, do see this classy show.

STELLA TAYLOR