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The legendary Willy Russell story of Blood Brothers has landed in Cardiff as part of its’ UK tour. Set in 1960’s Liverpool, we follow the story of twins separated at birth. They grow up on opposite sides of the class system but ultimately meet again with fateful consequences. Compared to the usual jaunty shows that grace the stage of the Wales Millennium Centre, prepare yourself for a story that is on the darker side and, if I were you, take along some tissues for when the tears ultimately come. Back in my GCSE days, which were too long ago to think about, we studied Blood Brothers inside and out for our exams; I have learned that many of my friends did, too. However, this was my first time seeing an actual performance of Blood Brothers. So, I attended with my GCSE drama analytical hat on to see how it would match up to my expectations.
Something I had forgotten about this story is that it is indeed a musical. I don’t think the musical numbers really add anything to the story, I think it could have easily been just a play and it would still have the same impact. Many of them are reprises of the same song throughout, which becomes a little repetitive after a while. That said, the performers were absolutely fantastic and really made the songs worth listening to. The starring role came from actor Vivienne Carlyle, who plays the role of Mrs Johnstone. This character does the bulk of the singing in Blood Brothers, and Carlyle certainly had the audience gripped with every note. Blood Brothers is a story that is quite demanding on the cast; one minute they’re playing careless children and the next they’re portraying adults with serious issues. A massive bravo to the touring cast of Blood Brothers for playing each character so brilliantly and convincingly.
One thing I will say about the story of Blood Brothers is, although very serious, it’s also a bit on the cheesy side. If I had to sum it up, I would say that it’s the original Eastenders. That said, it perfectly captures what theatre is all about; suspending the audience’s disbelief to tell a story that is beyond the imaginable. Theatre is, and should be, unapologetically extravagant in the way that Blood Brothers is. From the perspective of a theatre-nerd, the story and the production of Blood Brothers is everything that I could ask for. On the topic of production, it’s important to talk about the stunning set and lighting for the UK tour. The team have created a simple yet convincing set that reflects the streets of Liverpool, accompanied by an incredible use of lighting to set the mood, and reflect the different emotions of various scenes. There’s no denying the high production value of this show.
Willy Russell’s Blood Brothers is an absolute classic that you don’t want to miss. It will have you on the edge of your seat and ultimately in tears, but there are also many moments of laughter and child-like joy. A small warning, the show contains flashing lights and loud bangs that may take you by surprise. It’s in the Wales Millennium Centre until the 24th August, get your tickets and find out more here: https://www.wmc.org.uk/en/whats-on/2024/blood-brothers?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjwoJa2BhBPEiwA0l0ImFN33SaTbdQ129JG-naVABEU2tbdTCwrQki4Rs–iIIL-Bb596jJNhoCwuIQAvD_BwE
