Blood Brothers at Winter Gardens Blackpool Review

DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW

Reviewed by Cath Joyce

Last night we went to see Blood Brothers at Winter Gardens Blackpool . The iconic musical, written by Liverpudlian playwright Willy Russell, tells the heart-wrenching story of Mrs Johnstone, a mother struggling to raise seven children in the backstreets of Liverpool. Abandoned by her husband for a younger woman, Mrs Johnstone faces even greater hardship when she discovers she is pregnant again—this time with twins.

Her wealthy employer, Mrs. Lyons, who is unable to have children of her own, sees an opportunity in Mrs. Johnstone’s desperation. Knowing she can’t afford to feed two more mouths, Mrs. Lyons persuades her to give up one of the babies, promising that Mrs. Johnstone will still be able to see the child every day. However, once the baby is handed over, Mrs. Lyons reneges on her promise, giving Mrs. Johnstone money and terminating her employment to sever their connection entirely.

The two boys, separated at birth, don’t meet until they are seven years old, but when they do, they instantly become best friends and, in their innocence, make a pact to become “blood brothers.” Unaware of their true relationship, their paths cross repeatedly over the years, with neither realising that they are, in fact, twins.

Narrator Scott Anson guides us through the tragic tale and not only helps tell the story but questions the morality of what the characters are doing every step of the way. His character is always there in the background, watching events unfold whilst keeping the narrative moving throughout the night.

Sean Jones and Joe Sleight were perfectly cast as twin brothers Mickey and Eddie. They first captured the audience’s hearts as energetic boys aged “seven but nearly eight,” and we followed their journey through adolescence and into adulthood. Sean was fantastic as Mickey, playing the young boy to perfection – whether that was riding an imaginary horse or wiping his nose on his sleeve. In the second half his talent really shone out as he conveyed his character’s emotional decline following the loss of his job and his subsequent spiral into depression.

Sarah Jane Buckley delivered a brilliant performance as Mrs. Lyons, adding depth to the role with her portrayal of a woman driven by both desperation and fear.

While Blood Brothers tackles some serious themes, including class, poverty, and mental health, the show also incorporates plenty of humour, we especially enjoyed the scenes with the milkman and judge, as did the rest of the audience.

The large stage was transformed into a typical Liverpudlian terraced house street scene, complete with a view of the iconic Liver Building in the background. The set was visually stunning and cleverly adaptable, reflecting the different locations throughout the story with seamless transitions.

As the show ended, the audience quickly rose to their feet in a very well-deserved standing ovation. The combination of powerful storytelling, stellar performances, and stunning set design made for an unforgettable night at the Blackpool Opera House. Whether you’re a long time fan or experiencing Blood Brothers for the very first time, this production is an absolute must-see.

Rating: 5/5

Tickets cost from £18.25

Blood Brothers is at Blackpool Opera House until Saturday 7th September 2024.

For more information or to book tickets visit: www.wintergardensblackpool.co.uk or call the box office on 0844 770 0593                      
Winter Gardens Blackpool, Church Street, Blackpool, FY11HU