Tuesday, March 6, 2012

'Blood Brothers' Review


Malvern Festival Theatre
BLOOD BROTHERS (Bill Kenwright Productions)
A standing ovation and four curtain calls was testament to the quality of the latest touring production of Blood Brothers. Now in its phenomenal 22nd year of playing to packed houses, it returns to Malvern Festival Theatre to delight audiences for the next two weeks. A new cast and some fresh, new staging makes this arguably the best production of Blood Brothers to visit Malvern Theatres in many years.
Maureen Nolan tells Mrs Johnstone’s tragic story with beautiful vocals along side the equally gifted Craig Price as the ever-watchful Narrator. The moments these two share through song are spellbinding. Sean Jones is outstanding as the loveable Mickey as he journeys from being ‘nearly 8’ to the broken man he inevitably becomes. Matthew Collyer is charming and adorable as the slightly awkward Eddie and Kelly-Anne Gower is perfect as the devoted, fun loving Linda. Daniel Taylor is frighteningly believable as, the less than appealing, Sammy and Tracy Spencer presents possibly the best interpretation of Mrs Lyons to date as she takes what can often be an insipid character and gives her real depth, showing her mental anguish as she transforms from the dutiful housewife to a crazed woman. The remainder of the cast are brilliant in the many roles afforded them, in particular Graham Martin and Jonathan Vickers.
Special mention must be made of the incredible band, led by Musical Director, Kelvin Towse. The sound they produced was stunning and gave immense gravitas to Willy Russell’s inspired score. Whether this will be a returning visit or your first experience of the show, this show is definitely worth seeing. A brilliant, emotive, inspiring, live theatrical event!

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