AFTER weeks of rehearsals, choreography and music, the stage is set for the Chelmsford Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society production of hit musical Guys and Dolls.

Guys and Dolls tells the story of a group of New York gamblers and the ladies in their lives.

Claire Carr, vice-chairman of the theatre group, said: “There are 46 people in the cast made up of the principal line up, the gangsters, the Salvation Army, and the Hot Box dancers – but of course there is a huge team of people working behind the scenes, for example on the production team, or working as crew or in the 14-piece orchestra.

“We are fortunate to still have professional directors for all CAODS productions – Ray Jeffery has been back with us directing and choreographing this production.

“Ray has been with CAODS since 1974 and audiences are always astounded as to his attention to detail in his productions.

“The great score has been musically directed by Patrick Tucker, who we are delighted to welcome back again in this role.”

The show, which began its run on Tuesday night, still has four performances to go until the curtain falls for the final time on Saturday night at the Civic Theatre, in Chelmsford.

Performances will be tonight (Thursday), and tomorrow evening and there will also be a matinee show and evening performance on Saturday.

To book and for more details call the box office on 01245 606505 or alternatively visit chelmsford.gov.uk/theatres