Writing Flights of Angels gave me the perfect excuse to indulge myself by watching all my favourite musicals again, and again …

Here, in reverse order, is my personal top ten:

An American in Paris - It’s much too long and the story isn't the best in the world but Gene Kelly’s numbers rate amongst his best. The end ballet is about fifteen minutes long and is breathtaking, particularly the fountain scene, and I love the simple elegance of ‘Our Love is Here to Stay’.

Seven Brides for Seven Brothers - Jane Powell’s ‘Milly’ is adorable. The way she handles her new family is truly inspirational, and I adore the abduction scene! Wonderful, wonderful film!

Gentlemen Prefer Blondes - Marilyn Monroe and Jane Russell make quite a combination, and who can forget their entrance to the dining room on board the ship? Look out for Marilyn’s ‘Diamonds are a Girls Best Friend’, and Jane’s ‘Ain’t There Anyone Here For Love?’

Singin’ in the Rain - One of the best-loved musicals ever. What people don’t realise is that it’s also a great comedy and a fascinating insight into the world of ‘talkies’. Watch out for the dance sequence with long-legged Cyd Charisse. Cyd and Gene are HOT together!

The Slipper and the Rose - A gorgeous retelling of the Cinderella story with fairy-tale castles, wonderful numbers and a very cheeky Annette Crosbie as the fairy-godmother.

The Sound of Music - A wonderfully warm film filled with the infectious optimism of Julie Andrews. I love the moment she’s told about the Von Trapp children she’ll be looking after. “Seven!” And the song, ‘I Have Confidence in Me’ is a real life-anthem.

On the Town - This really is the ultimate feel-good film. Three sailors dock in New York and meet three girls. Simple. Perfect. With Gene Kelly, Frank Sinatra and Ann ‘Tops in Taps’ Miller.

Summer Stock - Gene Kelly causes chaos as he holds a musical in Judy Garland’s barn. They argue, they sing and dance and, finally, they fall in love. Favourite moments include Gene’s wonderful dance sequence inspired by a squeaky floorboard and a newspaper! And Judy’s ‘Get Happy’.

Anchors Aweigh - It’s Gene and Frank again, and they’ve still got their sailor suits on. Gene dances with Jerry from Tom and Jerry. And I love Kathryn Grayson as Aunt Susie.