Blood Brothers

The story of ‘Blood Brothers’ was a play long before it was released on the London stage as a musical. Dependant on well drawn characters particularly in the leading roles, it holds it’s own despite the lack of so many well known songs. However probably the most famous song from the musical, ‘Marilyn Munroe’ was allowed to be included and was sung by Katie Hunwick outstandingly well. She is an excellent actress who defined her role with great feeling ranging between great joy on moving to the country and struggling with her lot in life which forced her to part with one of her babies.

The weight of this play is carried by three characters: Katie as mum, and Harry Rippon and Aaron Ost as her ill fated twin sons Eddie and Mickey. The casting here was perfect. This brilliantly written play by Willy Russell tells the story of twin boys separated at birth who meet again aged 7, but nearly 8, who discover they share the same birthday so agree to become blood brothers. Harry and Aaron were both exceptional in their acting of young boys. They were very different but both having the facial expressions and actions of very young kids, with the correct mannerisms, allowing for their very different upbringings. The next stage in their lives was when they were in their late teens when Eddie was just going off to university and Mickey was falling in love with Linda his childhood friend played by Caroline Tinker. She was also exceptionally good at portraying a 7 year old child, both fiery and determined, playing with skill and perception. Their next appearance would have been approximately 10 years later. Every member of the cast aged well giving outstanding performances throughout.

Rosie O’Leary as Mrs Lyons, Eddie’s mum, gave another excellent performance as a woman having trouble coming to terms with the fact that she had lied to her husband regarding the birth of her only child and was subsequently nearing a nervous breakdown. Mike Black was cast as The Narrator who kept appearing, wandering about the stage, almost like the two mothers' conscience. He needs to learn to project his voice but was steadily getting better in the second half. Kate Bavin filled all the other parts, regardless of their sex, showing her willingness and ability. Well done Kate.

The direction of the play was first rate, the story moved at a good pace and everyone appeared to have a good understanding of their role. I was impressed with the staging, the less is more approach worked perfectly, the cast made full use of the acting area and the simple costumes were worn well by all members of the cast. Minimal props and furniture on stage were good and the long chunks of dialogue were made interesting by characters changing position and really showing intense emotion.

This was an enjoyable story and an excellent demonstration of a great favourite. Their small audience certainly appreciated the whole show; Well done to everyone concerned.

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