Blood Brothers

Willy’s Russell’s working-class odyssey with themes such as sibling rivalry, family bonds, nature v’s nurture, child development, and superstitious belief has ensured a universal appeal and kept it surprisingly relevant today….. and what a production this is. This revival of Blood Brothers feels bright, energised, and relevant. Russell’s questions about class, inequality, lies, deceit and the true power of friendship and love stand powerfully strong.

The intriguing story of two brothers separated at birth is bought to life by Josh Capper as Mickey and Joel Benedict as Eddie. They are engaging throughout and bring some very strong performances to the stage, particularly Capper (understudy at the performance). The audience loved these two! Both Capper and Benedict transition between comedy and drama seamlessly and bring energy and a sense of childish fun to the stage. It is a real highlight and makes the poignant ending even more emotional and powerful. An encapsulating performance is also seen from Robbie Scotcher, the Narrator. His strong, foreboding voice adds a haunting presence that every time he ventures onto the stage, and although you know where this is going to end up, you just wish he would be wrong.

However, the standout performance is Niki Evans as Mrs. Johnstone. From X Factor fame she dazzles us with her exceptional vocal delivery. She is emotional; raw; makes you believe in every word; reduces you to uncontrollable emotion; envelops her vocals around you; she ensures you miss nothing.

Having seen this production a number of times, this was by far the best interpretation of Mrs Johnstone I have seen. I never really recovered from the chill down the spine as she sang her number “Light Romance”, and as she leads the cast in the final number of “Tell Me It’s Not True”, your heart just breaks as you hear her weep through the words. You really wish that this was a scene from the old movies, like those that starred Mariyn Monroe - as she begs, pleads with anyone that will listen for a second chance to start again. Heartbreaking!

Matt Malone and Bob Tomson have done a stunning job with this production. Few musicals bring an immediate standing ovation and as the lights come up you realise that all of those around you, are just as emotionally devastated by this show as you are. It really is nights like this that make you grateful for theatres being open.

Dean Thomas-Lowde for Canal St Media

Blood Brothers is at the Palace Theatre until Saturday 26th February 2022.

Details and tickets are here 

Published: 17-Feb-2022 (6536)