Blood Brothers at Milton Keynes Theatre Review
DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW
Reviewed by Shel
Few musicals hold the status of Willy Russell’s Blood Brothers. Since its first performance in the early 1980s, the show has rarely left the stage, building a loyal following and a reputation as one of the most affecting British musicals ever written. The Autumn 2025 tour proves exactly why it continues to captivate, presenting a production that honours its roots while offering fresh appeal for today’s audiences. It is Funny, thought provoking, extremely emotional, raw & unforgettable.
I saw this at Milton Keynes theatre, which is lovely modern theatre, next to the shopping centre with ample parking. Some restaurants nearby make it perfect for a pre-theatre show meal too.
Vivienne Carlyle as Mrs Johnstone is amazing. Her performance is very moving, showing kindness warmth, vulnerability along with the weight in which her life choices are made. Her singing is phenomenal, from funny to gut wrenching and true heartfelt honesty.
The story also rests heavily on the twin brothers. Sean Jones plays the role of Mickey showing a masterclass in his transformations, moving easily from mischievous little boy to a very troubled adult. His timings are spot on when needed in certain scenes and will have you belly chuckling and even laughing out loud. As he portrays later in the show the adult side of Mickey, the humour becomes less and less to the point of; from despair, devastation, upset and anger. Mickeys twin brother; Eddie, played by Danny Knott has a very privileged upbringing with charisma, charm and innocence. Together, they form a great bond which later is tested in ways they never thought.
Gemma Brodrick plays the role of Linda. Like the brothers, she portrays the journey from a child and teenager to an adult with choices that provide difficult and challenging.
Kristofer Harding plays the role of the narrator. Thought his narration of the show, he is dark in his deliverance, making him very compelling to listen to and watch. Paula Tappenden delivers an outstanding performance as the role of Mrs Lyons. With a background wealth, she struggles with superstitions and paranoia. A very different portrayal of her warm, caring and nurturing character in comparison in the early parts of the show. Danny Knott plays Perkins, Michael Gillet plays the role of Sammy, Mickey’s eldest brother along with Francesca Benton-Stace who plays Donna Marie, Mickey’s eldest sister. They are all fantastic and the way they portray their characters from child, teens to adult is both funny and heartfelt. Later in the show, she also portrays Miss Jones. Latesha Karisa plays the role of Brenda bringing a bright and lively presence to the character.
Tim Churchill plays the main role of Mr Lyons; a wealthy business man who shows calmness without emotion to his wife. Josh Capper is amazing as he plays the role of Neighbour and hats off to Alex Harland, Graeme Kinniburgh, and Dominic Gore. They have an amazing ability to be versatile in their roles in all scenes of the show. With costumes based on day to clothing, they show both sides of a coin. They show division from class, wealth to those less fortunate. These costumes are shown in each character’s journey from childhood to adult hood and are integral to the characters journeys.
As with all shows, lighting is an integral part it. From fun, bright and fun tones in the early parts of the show to dark, eery and when tragedy approaches. The spotlight on the narrator is perfect, it’s dark and eery.
The set is very well put together from typical terraced houses to the wealthier side of living. There are other props used constantly throughout the show, making them work well in each scene they are used for.
The live band is an integral part of the show and if you are sitting in the stalls, especially close to the stage, you are in for a treat. Their performance from start to finish is vibrant. The music fits extremely well with every song; from those that are fun and playful to the darker performances. They, along with the actors singing, had me and everyone in the theatre; up on their feet applauding. I had goosebumps.
The show has humour and heartbreak that will have you laughing, chuckling and if like me, crying. It is a credit to the writer, the late Willy Russell
Rating: 5/5
Prices of tickets vary from the day and time you go. BOOK NOW, you will not be disappointed! For more information or to book tickets, visit www.atgtickets.com