Review by Olivia Ruggiero

Willy Russell’s ‘Blood Brothers’ has been become a classic; and given the prowess and punch of the current UK tour, it is obvious why. It is a hard hitting and necessary piece of theatre that will stay with audiences long after the final curtain falls.

Vivienne Carlyle delivers a pitch perfect performance as Mrs. Johnstone – her pathos and warmth are clear in her detailed portrayal. Her voice is sublime, with her technical ability second to none and her tonal quality oozing with richness.  Carlyle’s chemistry with both Sean Jones as Mickey and Joe Sleight as Eddie is palpable. Sleight’s physicality and vocal timbre reflect the preppy, posh boy in his youth and the sophisticated, rich gentlemen in his adulthood. His exceptional acting matches his vocal ability. He plays the opposite of his ‘blood brother’ well. Jones is the standout in this show – his emotional arc is delivered with detail. His evolution from child, to teen, to adult into depression and finally madness is truthful and never over-played.

A thought-provoking and brilliant interpretation of Mickey. The whole cast sing in this production of Blood Brothers. The ensemble is vibrant on stage and the supporting roles ring true. Séan Keany is exceptional as the Narrator. His looming presence and stellar vocals are a highlight of the show.

The set design is simple, and the lighting perfectly emulates the action on stage. The costuming is effective and matches the tone of everything well. The sound design is a work of art in its own right – both evoking chills and warmth as needed. There is not a production element out of place in this show.

The real hero is Willy Russell’s text, music and lyrics. It provides a fine insight into classicism and the gaps in our social economy. Subtly at first, it penetrates the audiences mind as Mrs. Lyons offers to buy Mrs. Johnstone’s baby, and in doing so lie to her husband. Later as the friendship forms between the two blood brothers, we see their distinct paths take shape and yet there is still a fragile connection there in their love for the same girl.

Never in my career have I witnessed such an audible and visceral reaction at the end of a show. The shockwaves lasted several seconds before the band came in for the final song. It’s the type of theatre that shocks and stays with you. It is real and heart-wrenching, guttural and poignant. An outstanding piece of theatre that will haunt and stay with you.

Blood Brothers is a show that should not be missed, particularly with this incredible cast. For more information about Blood Brothers and New Wimbledon Theatre please visit the link below.

Five Stars

Photo Credit Jack Merriman

https://www.atgtickets.com/venues/new-wimbledon-theatre/

Written by: Willy Russell
Directed by: Bob Tomson and Bill Kenwright
Resident director: Tim Churchill
Music supervisor: Matt Malone
Design by: Andy Walmsley
Lighting design by: Nick Richings
Sound design by: Dan Samson