Blood Brothers
Phoenix Theatre
Performance Reviewed: Saturday 12th August 2012 (evening)
Like most people I was left in shock last week when it was announced Blood Brothers would be closing after nearly 24 years in the West End. Without hesitation I immediately booked tickets to see this tremendous musical one last time...
What I love most about Blood Brothers is the gripping storyline. One minute you are crying with laughter and then next you are crying with sadness. I can't name a human emotion that isn't explored in this incredible show.
The star of the show was Vivienne Carlyle. Her portrayal of Mrs Johnstone, in my opinion, was perfect. She played the single mother with such depth, making her relatable to the audience. Her voice was stunning throughout, however during the iconic song 'Tell Me It's Not True' Vivienne really turned it up a notch. The final note she sung was so powerful and heartbreaking, leaving the majority of the audience sobbing.
My favourite character in Blood Brothers is the Narrator. I love the way the Narrator is used through out the show. Philip Stewart's mysterious portrayal of the Narrator was exciting to watch. His voice was haunting. Every move he made and every note he sung looked and sounded effortless.
Mark Rice-Oxley's portrayal of Mickey's journey was outstanding. He had great chemistry with Paul Christopher who plays Eddie. I have always been fond of the two characters as I love how much they contrast which each other.
It was refreshing to watch Abigail Jaye play Mrs Lyons as she kept her portrayal simple and delicate. In some ways I disliked Abigail's Mrs Lyons more than I have in the past however I also felt more sympathy for Mrs Lyons towards the end of the show. I also found her relationship with the narrator intriguing.
To me Louise Clayton will always be Linda. You can tell how she knows the role inside out - her performance was faultless.
The rest of the cast are all strong. Although the cast is small they all have a huge personalities and great stage presence. Blood Brothers is an extremely powerful show. The mixture of comedy and drama is perfect meaning there really is something for everyone!
Visit www.atgtickets.com/shows/blood-brothers/phoenix-theatre to find out more and to book tickets.
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