It’s not surprising that two of the greatest, and longest-lasting, touring shows in the history of the British theatre (“Blood Brothers” and “Joseph”) have outlasted the producer of both, Bill Kenwright. It was his acumen as well as his insight which spotted their potential for longevity – and he was certainly proved right. Not only was Kenwright a powerhouse of theatre production for many years, but the progenitor of numerous solid, lucrative tours giving work to hundreds, if not thousands, of actors, singers and dancers. It’s with these two shows Kenwright will be synonymous, and both have toured forever without a conclusion in sight. “Joseph” has lasted pretty much continuously for forty years with “Blood Brothers” trailing behind with a mere thirty or so under its belt. Where “Joseph” is the glitzy, fun, family show, “Blood Brothers” is it’s grittier, dirtier, hard-hitting, and tragic cousin.
It sprang from the prolific pen of Willy Russell which, of late, seems to have dried up sadly, as he gave us the mega-hits “Education Rita”, “Shirley Valentine” and then took up his guitar to compose tonight’s musical. His only one, in fact. Perhaps Russell, being the true pro he is, knows when to leave them wanting more.
“So did you hear the story of the Johnson twins?” begins a truly Grecian tragedy, structured in such a classical manner it can only lead to one inevitable, yet shocking, conclusion. I won’t give it away, but you won’t be coming out with a smile on your face – though there is much to laugh about on the way. A meaner critic may suggest this is a hoary old warhorse which should have been put out to pasture years ago and certainly there were odd melodramatic moments which wouldn’t be out of place in Coronation Street and probably it has the least diverse cast on tour, but there’s something painfully poignant at a very primal level about this show – as there should be with all tragedies – delivering an experience which resonates in our hearts long after the final note has been sung.
It seems a tradition with this show to cast pop stars in the lead role of Mrs Johnston – Kiki Dee, Lyn Paul, Barbara Dickson, the occasional Nolan. It’s a strong role for a woman who this time is played with aplomb and ballsy passion by Niki Colwell Evans who hits some powerful and moving moments. The chemistry between her and her two separated children form the crux of the story and we’re blessed by two actors who really seemed separated at birth, Sean Jones and Joe Sleight, both adept and endearing performers we can’t help rooting for. Tim Churchill is used extensively as various roles and brings both comedy and gravitas to them all. Sarah Jane Buckley as the well to do Mother Mrs Lyons is a delight. It’s a true ensemble piece with other parts, as they say, played by members of the company.
But the true star of “Blood Brothers” is, of course, Willy Russell whose ear for invective and vernacular prose coupled with an adept ability at construction as well as nifty skill with a tune, make this a critic-proof piece known as the “standing ovation” musical. And the man who made it all happen was the indomitable Bill Kenwright whose name and work will always be remembered when we hear the melodies from this show.
Reviewer: Peter Kinnock
Reviewed: 30th April 2024
North West End UK Rating: