Blood Brothers – National Tour 2024/25
Derby Theatre – 14th January 2025

Willy Russell’s much-loved musical Blood Brothers continues its highly acclaimed UK tour, this time taking centre stage at Derby Theatre. This production tells the heartbreaking story of Mickey and Eddie—twin brothers separated at birth and raised in vastly different worlds, only to have their lives tragically collide.

Set in Liverpool from the 1960s through to the 1980s, the story explores themes of class divide, fate, and superstition, painting a vivid picture of how society shapes individual lives. Mickey grows up in poverty, facing hardship at every turn, while Eddie’s privileged upbringing offers him a life of ease. Russell skilfully weaves humour with sharp social commentary, using the twins’ contrasting lives to examine the tension between nature and nurture. Decades after its debut, the story remains as relevant and impactful as ever, and this tour captures its timeless power beautifully.

The cast is outstanding, delivering heartfelt and deeply moving performances. Sean Jones as Mickey brilliantly portrays the character’s transformation from a cheeky, carefree boy to a broken and desperate man. His performance is, as always, brilliant. Joe Sleight brings charm and warmth to the role of Eddie, creating a poignant contrast to Mickey’s struggles. Together, they are compelling, driving home the tragedy at the heart of the story.

Vivienne Carlyle’s portrayal of Mrs Johnstone is the emotional core of the production. She exudes warmth, strength, and heartbreak, perfectly capturing the pain of a mother forced to make an impossible choice. Her singing is packed with passion and sincerity.

Sean Keany as the Narrator is a haunting presence throughout, embodying the story’s themes of fate and inevitability. His ominous delivery keeps the tension alive, leading the audience towards the play’s powerful and heart-stopping finale.

Gemma Brodrick shines as Linda, effortlessly moving between moments of humour and heartbreak. Her role in the brothers’ lives is pivotal, and she portrays it with skill and emotional depth, transitioning convincingly from a carefree schoolgirl to a wife and mother.

Sarah Jane Buckley and Tim Churchill, as Mrs Lyons and Mr Lyons, are long-time staples of this production, and their performances are as strong as ever. Sarah Jane brings passion and complexity to Mrs Lyons, making her a central figure in the unfolding drama, while Tim’s Mr Lyons is understated yet effective. Tim also serves as the show’s resident director.

Another highlight is how the ensemble cast seamlessly take on multiple roles, adding richness and versatility to the production. James Ledsham (Sammy), Alex Harland (Policeman), Chloe Pole (Donna Marie/Miss Jones), Graeme Kinniburgh (Postman/Bus Conductor), Cameron Patmore (Perkins), Dominic Gore (Neighbour), and Jess Smith (Brenda) all deliver standout performances that complete this exceptional cast.

Visually, the production opts for simplicity, and it works brilliantly. Andy Walmsley’s set design, combined with Nick Richings’ lighting and Dan Samson’s sound design, creates smooth transitions that evoke time and place, highlighting the stark contrast between the brothers’ lives. The staging ensures the focus remains on the powerful performances, while the live orchestra, under Matt Malone’s musical supervision, amplifies the emotional core of the story. Iconic songs like “Easy Terms”, “Marilyn Monroe”, and the heart-wrenching finale “Tell Me It’s Not True” are delivered with intensity and passion.

Bob Tomson’s direction is fast-paced and emotionally charged, keeping the audience fully engaged from start to finish.

This touring production of Blood Brothers is a testament to why the musical has become such a cornerstone of British theatre. With its timeless story, emotional depth, and exceptional performances, it leaves audiences deeply moved. Unsurprisingly, it earned a full theatre standing ovation, and it’s a response the production richly deserves.

Whether you’re experiencing this classic for the first time or revisiting it, Blood Brothers is a theatrical experience that stays with you long after it ends. It’s a masterclass in storytelling and theatre —raw, powerful, and unforgettable.