Writer: Willy Russell
Directors: Bob Tomson and Bill Kenwright
It has been discussed many times as to whether Willy Russell’s iconic Blood Brothersis a play, a musical or simply a play with music. However there is nothing simple about this piece of writing.
Blood Brothersbegan it’s life in 1988 as a play, touring schools, before becoming a full blown musical. The story is of a mother, Mrs Johnstone, who finds herself unable to properly care for her family.
Whilst working for a wealthy family, the Lyons, she gives birth to twin boys, Mickey and Eddie. As Mrs Lyons is unable to have children of her own a pact is made between the two women. She will bring up Eddie whilst Mickey will remain with his mother.
The different upbringings and the impact it has on their lives is clearly shown. Thus prompting a debate for ‘nature or nurture’.
The timespan of the play is from the sixties to the mid eighties. However this play is so well written that it doesn’t feel dated or tired. You will laugh and cry in equal measures. It’s a story full of love, friendship and the catastrophic results of not telling the truth. A very human story.
After being separated at birth the twins are drawn back together in adulthood, in Liverpool post 1960s. They have however grown up in contrasting worlds.
Comedy combined with tragedy are successfully married together, playing on the theme of ‘nature versus nurture’. Lots of issues are raised such as the class system, poverty and unemployment. All married together in one melting pot with a memorable music score.
In this production Mrs Johnstone is played by Niki Colwell Evans. A character emotionally charged as she endures the pain of giving away a child. In this production it was clearly shown that she has mastered the scouse accent to perfection. Mrs Lyons, played by Sarah Jane Buckley, perfectly portrays the anguish shown by a woman unable to bear children.
The central characters, Mickey and Eddie, are played in this production respectively by Sean Jones and Joe Sleight. They bring the humour element perfectly to this production, Mickey breaking the fourth wall as he talks to the audience is a joy. Keeping a firm hand on this production is Scott Anson as the Narrator. He is always there on the shoulder of the characters, almost like their conscience. Gemma Brodrick, plays the role of Linda, the love interest of both boys. She transforms from schoolgirl to grown woman effortlessly and her love for Mickey is clearly shown.
The lighting and sound are married together in this production. The introductory music and lighting effects bring the perfect atmosphere to the beginning of this production, clearly highlighting what will play out before you during the performance.
This production successfully combines comedy with tragedy, playing on the theme of ‘nature versus nurture’ Other important issues are also raised such as the class system, poverty and unemployment. They all come together with a memorable music score.
This is almost a three hour show. You will laugh and cry in equal measures and you will leave wanting more.
Have the questions at the beginning of this review been answered? The reviewer concludes that it’s a play with a strong storyline supported by a memorable music score.
One final piece of advice, before you view this production. Don’t forget the tissues.
Runs until 3rd February 2024.
The Reviews Hub Score
Dramatic, Heart-wrenching, Funny
