Blood Brothers continues at Milton Keynes Theatre until 3 September 2022 and then tours until 3 December 2022.
Star rating: five stars ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
The ever-popular Blood Brothers by Willy Russell arrives at Milton Keynes Theatre this week. The heart-wrenching tale of twin brothers who are separated at birth due to their poverty-stricken mother being unable to financially support them, is a fascinating and moving insight into nature and nurture, while also delving into themes of class division, family bonds and sibling rivalry. An emotional watch, which will have you glued to your seat throughout.
The show is full of powerful performances, but the most noteworthy is Niki Colwell Evans’ retelling of Mrs Johnstone, the boys’ mother. Evans has a lot of experience in the role, both during the show’s West End run and much of its UK tour. She’s at ease and comfortable with the character, as if her time on stage is second nature to her. This is not to be mistaken for complacency – far from it – every word that Evans speaks and song lyric that she sings is brimming with emotion and cause.
Sean Jones who plays Mickey is equally a pro, having had a long and successful association with the role throughout Blood Brothers’ West End residency and touring productions. Both Jones and Jay Worley, as Eddie, cleverly encapsulate every age of the twins. Even though they’re fully grown men playing children as young as seven, they’re believable as juvenile kids. It is excellent acting, which is a pleasure to watch. Jones expertly portrays the further trauma of Mickey’s life, especially his battle with depression and final breakdown.
Another returning actor to the show is Richard Munday as the narrator – a poignant role, which is key to pulling the story together. The omniscient presence of the devil-like narrator is perfectly executed by Munday. Accompanied by an incredible supporting cast, it’s impossible to fault any of the performances. Each role is in need of heart, which is fulfilled by all.
Throughout the show, the stage depicts a street of stereotypical houses, with the backdrop changing from a view of the Liverpool skyline to rolling countryside fields (set and costume design are by Andy Walmsley. The simple set allows for the focus to remain on the acting, while still setting the tone to represent the different class environments that the twins are raised in.
Finally, the live band (directed by Matt Malone) made up of two keyboards, guitars, bass, brass and drums supports in pounding home the emotive scenes. I was lost in the story and would highly recommend this production to any other drama lovers that are looking for a tear-jerker show to totally sweep them away.
Hannah Grimmette
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