Malvern Theatre – until 5th March 2022
Reviewed by Kathie Hodges
5*****
I was absolutely thrilled to be able to see Willy Russell’s Blood Brothers.
This legendary show arrived At Malvern Theatre to a sold out audience and it did not disappoint.
Blood Brothers is a musical telling the intriguing and tragic story of the Johnstone twins, separated at birth.
One remains with his birth mother and the other is reluctantly given up in the hope of a better life.
Set in Liverpool in the 60’s Mrs Johnstone struggles to make ends meet. Her husband who once took her dancing and compared her beauty to that of Marilyn Monroe, leaves her after she falls pregnant yet again, for a younger woman who looks even more like Marilyn Monroe.
With seven children and twins on the way, and the constant threat of debt collectors, she’s drawn in to a peculiar pact.
Her wealthy employer Mrs Lyon’s desperately wants a child to fulfil her but unable to bear a child of her own, Mrs Lyon’s convinces Mrs Johnstone to give one of her babies to her. That way at least one of her children will have the best start in life.
Understanding the struggle of living during that time is a huge part of understanding Mrs Johnstones actions, and indeed to understanding why Mickey and Eddie’s lives differ so much.
The set is brilliantly designed to show the divide between rich and poor.
One side made up of mansions, the other a council estate.
The real problems arise when fate brings the pair back together years later. Bonding immediately, but with tragic circumstances.
Sean Jones is first seen as a playful seven year old Mickey. Obviously he is a grown man however he plays the part of this cheeky young lad brilliantly bringing some big laughs to the show.
Joel Benedict is fantastic as Eddie, deeming everything ‘fantastic’ in his ever so posh voice.
Mrs Johnstone played by Niki Evans brings so much charm to the role, we can feel nothing but adoration for her.
Her flawless voice delivers every note perfectly and ‘Tell me it’s not True’ to a standing ovation. The love she has for her children is evident in spite of the lack of money and we feel every bit of her struggle, and her emotion.
Mrs Lyon’s however is a very tough role to play. Paula Tappenden portrays the character of this desperate woman who eventually has a break down, unable to live with the lies she has told.
Narrator Robbie Scotcher remains on stage throughout the duration of the show, seeming to act as the conscience of both woman, reminding them both of the terrible choices they have made.
For the most part the play gives a lot of laughs, but the fate of the boys keeps you on the edge of your seat.
The finale is greeted with a standing ovation. There were gunshots, there were tears, it was tense. Would I recommend it. Absolutely!
Book a seat today.