When we got the call asking if we would like to review Bill Kenwright’s producion of Blood Brothers at the Pavilion Theatre in Bournemouth, as a big theatre lover, I was the first in line!
Considered ‘One of the best musicals ever written’ (Sunday Times), Blood Brothers, written by award-winning playwright Willy Russell has triumphed across the globe. Scooping up no fewer than four awards for best musical in London and seven Tony Award nominations on Broadway, Blood Brothers is simply ‘Unmissable and unbeatable’ (The Spectator).
For those who are not familiar with Blood Brothers, it is an epic tale of Liverpool life, telling the captivating and moving story of twin boys separated at birth, only to be reunited by a twist of fate and a mother’s haunting secret. The memorable score includes A Bright New Day, Marilyn Monroe and the emotionally charged hit Tell Me It’s Not True.
When Mrs Johnstone, a young mother, is deserted by her husband and left to her own devices to provide for seven hungry children she takes a job as a housekeeper in order to make ends meet. It is not long before her brittle world crashes around her when she discovers herself to be pregnant yet again – this time with twins! In a moment of weakness and desperation, she enters a secret pact with her employer, which leads inexorably to the shows shattering climax.
Having recently played Bobby Willis in Cilla The Musical (UK Tour), Alexander Patmore makes his debut as Mickey Johnstone. Joel Benedict and Paula Tappenden return to the roles of Eddie Lyons and Mrs Lyons respectively. Paula has had a long association with the production, having performed in both the West End and touring companies.
The rest of the cast for Blood Brothers includes Linzi Hateley, Robbie Scotcher, Danielle Corlass, Tim Churchill, Graham Martin, Amy Jane Ollies, Alison Crawford, Graeme Kinniburgh, Andy Owens and Josh Capper.
The cast was sensational and took you on the journey with them, making you completely invested in the characters. It really is a show of two halves, the first half has you laughing along with the cast and applauding how well they embrace their roles, making you truly believe in what you were watching. Whilst the second half becomes much more serious and, I am not ashamed to admit, causes more that a few tears as the heartbreaking
consequences unfold.
The audiences’ reaction said it all, with the whole crowd giving a standing ovation. I left feeling like I had been on an emotional roller-coaster, and humming the catchy Marilyn Monroe song! This is a not to be missed show, I recommended you buy your ticket to experience it for yourself, and don’t forget the tissues!
Picture courtesy of BH Live Tickets.
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