Blood Brothers at New Wimbledon Theatre

Willy Russell’s Blood Brothers is a modern British classic, a stalwart of 20^th century musical theatre. As one of only three musicals to ever pass 10,000 performances on the West End, it requires a good adaptation elsewhere. Luckily the production at the New Wimbledon Theatre more than lives up to that reputation. 

Blood Brothers is about twins Mickey and Eddie, who are separated at birth and grow up on different sides of the tracks, but meet as children and form a friendship with dazzling highs, but also tragic lows. It’s a timeless story with an ever-relevant message about class and the effects of nature vs nurture. 

Helmed by veteran theatre producer Bill Kenwright, this new version is fast-paced, hilarious and impactful. It comes roaring out of the gate and propels itself forward with refreshing intensity, filling the auditorium with palpable energy. In fact, it’s evident from the very first scene that the audience is totally invested, laughing, gasping and bobbing their heads along with the music. With material as good as Russell’s, it’s not difficult to see why. 

It’s also totally absorbing, and the narrative is brought to life with surprisingly minimal set work and fantastic performances. Particularly good is Niki Evans as Mrs Johnstone, who not only manages to completely inhabit her character in the quieter moments, but also belts out her songs with a captivating ferocity. The entire cast is great, however, and the two leads, Sean Jones and Joel Benedict (who play Mickey and Eddie respectively) really manage to sell their characters at all stages in their lives. 

What stands out most is the show’s emotional impact. Subject matter such as this requires a careful touch, and the production manages to both capture the intricacy of class divides and deliver the message with gut-wrenching punch. It combines dramatic and comedic scenes with effortless flair, highlighting the multifaceted nature of life in Britain for so many people. Despite the obviously over-the-top delivery of many of the funnier moments, it never feels like the reality of these people’s lives is being played for laughs. A wonderful balance is maintained from start to finish.

By the end, when the lights cut to black, the crowd surge to their feet in applause. For musical theatre, that’s about as much as needs to be said.

Joe Milo

Blood Brothers is at New Wimbledon Theatre from 8^th February until 12^th February 2022. For further information or to book visit the theatre’s website here.