Blood Brothers Review
There are few musical theatre shows which are as loved as much as Willy Russel’s Blood Brothers…
This timeless production arrives at the Regent Theatre, Hanley as part of the latest national tour…Produced by Biill Kenwright Ltd…Blood Brothers is the tale of twin brothers parted at birth…Review by Mel Osborne
When single mum Mrs Johnstone finds out she is pregnant with twins she turns to her employer Mrs Lyons, who makes her an offer she cannot afford to refuse. However, one day the boys accidentally meet and form a friendship without realising they are brothers. When love comes calling disaster strikes and things are never the same again.
(Image supplied by The Regent. Credit Jack Merriman.)
Willy Russell wrote Blood Brothers in 1981 as a small play and by 1983 it premiered in
Liverpool as a musical and transferred to the West End.
It is a show that has been loved by millions for years. For some it is the depiction of differing social issues in Britain and the nature vs nurture debate that resonates
Does money influence a child’s future or is it written in fate from the start? Others love the musical for the phenomenal songs such as’ Marlyin Monroe ‘and the heart wrenching ‘ Tell me it’s not true’ which in this performance was delivered with harmonic perfection.
What is remarkable about this production is that many of the main cast members have reprised their roles numerous times.
In fact, Sean Jones who plays Mickey Johnston has done so for over 20 years. His dedication to the character, the mannerisms and how he grows Mickey from nearly aged eight to adulthood is inspirational.
Joe Sleight and Gemma Brodrick also return as Eddie and Linda and it is evident that the well-executed on-stage bond contributes to the professional calibre of this production.
Vivianne Caryle as Mrs Johnstone is well cast as she creates a tender and likeable portrayal of the tragic character Russel created many years ago. Her rendition of ‘Easy terms’ is particularly notable as she effortlessly sings this heart wrenching ballad. Times and fashions change but struggles don’t.
Blood brothers is a well-oiled dream of a show. Even though it is more than 40 years old it
is certainly not dated with stunning scenery and atmospheric lighting.
It is always a treat to experience the West End touch in Stoke-on-Trent. Towards the end of the show there was a sense of a rush to get to the end as the final story seems to speed
up at a rapid pace.
However ultimately it is a stunning play. Blood Brothers is a roller coaster of a show which will make you question the fairness of life – having you both laughing and crying- so don’t forget to pack the tissues.
5 stars
