Blood Brothers Theatre Royal Plymouth Review

Reviewed by Linda Curtain

I was delighted to have the chance to attend the Theatre Royal Plymouth last evening to review the amazing stage production of Willy Russell’s Blood Brothers. Being my all-time favourite musical (it’s now in double figures the amount of times I’ve seen it!) it was great to return to a full theatre – after such a difficult period for the performing arts – to see such an iconic show.

On arriving at the theatre we had no problem parking at the nearby car park. Access to the conveniently situated Theatre Royal is easy whether you are arriving by car, bus or on foot. Some covid limitations remain in place – face coverings are encouraged when moving around and e-tickets are scanned as you enter. The cafe and bar areas remain closed and there were no programmes/memorabilia available. The front of house staff were as brilliant as ever though making sure everyone felt safe and welcome as they entered the building. They were even able to supply me with a cast list for the performance. As we settled into our seats it was wonderful to see a full theatre buzzing with atmosphere and anticipation.

For anyone who doesn’t know the storyline, it is basically the tragic story of twins separated at birth and how their lives took such different routes when one twin Mickey (played by Alexander Patmore) stayed with his birth mother to be raised on a run down council estate while his twin Eddie ( played by Joel Benedict) was raised within a wealthy family setting. The boys meet up and form a close friendship never knowing there are brothers but the ghosts of the past are always there with devastating consequences.

From the haunting opening overtures, the audience goes on the rollercoaster ride of emotions with the families following a story of happiness, sadness and lots of intertwined superstition.

Always present on stage – lurking around every corner – is the Narrator. Such an important role acting in the background as the character’s conscience, keeping the storyline flowing. Tim Churchill played this role brilliantly last evening with strong vocals, clear diction and menacing tones, his commitment to the role shone through.
The way the characters age through the show is always impressive from being children with all their future dreams, then awkward teenagers to emerge as young adults. Alexander Patmore’s portrayal of Micky from a cheeky seven ( nearly eight!) year old to a ghost of a man challenged by mental health issues was really emotional.
How great to see Lyn Paul back in the role of Mrs Johnstone – a role she initially had over twenty years ago. Such a talented, expressive actress – to me she really is ‘Mrs Johnson’. I’m sure no-one in the audience had a dry eye in the dramatic finale. The emotion shown by Lyn Paul and the cast members was a true reflection of the impact this play has on everybody.

With a combination of great songs – some lively, some sad but put across with such energy and commitment by the company – they are sure to stay with you for days.

Running all week at the Theatre Royal Plymouth, be sure to grab one of the remaining seats for an evening of heartwarming and heartbreaking moments combined with much thought provoking material.

Rating: 5/5

Tickets priced from £18.00 and available from www.theatreroyal.com.