Willy Russell's timeless musical is celebrating 20 years in London's West End. The show is also hugely successful on tour, often selling out – with many fans coming to watch it again and again. Last night was my 6th visit to this heart breaking classic.
Part of the reason for the show's success is its simplicity. So many musicals rely on a gimmick to attract an audience whether it is a witch 'defying gravity', a helicopter landing on stage or a well known narrative based on a film. Blood Brothers has a strong, original script- so therefore the use of a unique selling point is not required.
A tale of separated blood relatives, this piece ties the audience in knots even though the opening signals that the climax will end in tears. Mrs Johnston is a loving mother – but with more kids than she can afford – she decides to give one up; a new born twin. Her middle class boss, Mrs Lyons (Vanessa Clarke) is the recipient which causes conflict and ultimately, self destruction. The two women make a pact and we follow the lives of each mother as they face the consequences of their actions.
The narrator constantly reminds you of the tragedy that looms large- often appearing on stage behind these women, like a threatening magpie. Many critics have questioned the need for this character but I feel it stops it from veering into a melodramatic, sentimental musical. Craig Price has the sense of menace required and a real rocky edge to his voice.
As Mrs. J, Linda Nolan really captures the essence of this working class mum who is 'trapped' but never one to use self pity, to fight back. Her singing voice is superb and she wins your sympathy with every note. I have seen this role over done previously- and it has lapsed into caricature but not here; Nolan simply nails it.
Mrs. Lyons is a difficult character to portray. On paper she is a sympathetic character – as she cannot have children, yet is viewed as 'having it all.' Vanessa Clarke imbues her with humanity and you do cry for her loss also.
The most challenging roles though, in some ways are those of the twins, as the actors have to highlight their growing pains from 7 years upwards. Not easy- as this can appear in awkward on stage in other productions- but Blood Brothers prides itself on such great lyrics, book and music by Willy Russell. So much so that these 'childhood' scenes come to life as they are so beautifully imagined and delivered by gifted actors here.
Stephen Palfreman is no stranger to the role of Mickey and it shows. This charismatic actor portrays the light and shade of the lovable scamp. Slowly but surely we watch as he convincingly hits rock bottom. Opposites attract and Craig Whiteley is the best Eddie I have seen in some time. Often played as a camp snob, this actor raises his game alongside Palfreman, making the role his own.
Russell's songs like "Tell Me It's Not True" and "Easy Terms" have become classics and are enough, on their own to have you wiping your eyes. But his thundering music and sharp script bring realism to a genre that, too often relies on fantasy elements to keep the audience engaged.
If you have never caught this show before, you really do not know what you have been missing for the last 20 years. If you have been already and are worried that it has lost that loving feeling, go again, as like "Marilyn Monroe" - something beautiful remains.
Glenn Meads (Reviewed at the Manchester Opera House).
Blood Brothers: UK tour details are at: http://www.kenwright.com/index.php?page=shows&id=8
