blood brothers tour northern ireland

Blood Brothers Tour

The Blood Brothers UK tour   will continue its tour into 2024!  More dates to be added… Sign up to our touring alerts and we will let you know when the show comes to your area. 

BLOOD BROTHERS UK TOUR 2024 DATES & TICKETS

Blood Brothers Tour DARTFORD Tue 02 Apr – Sat 06 Apr 2024 Blood Brothers Tour BILLINGHAM Tue 26 Mar – Sat 30 Mar 2024 Blood Brothers Tour TORQUAY Tue 19 Mar – Sat 23 Mar 2024 Blood Brothers Tour KINGS LYNN Tue 12 Mar – Sat 16 Mar 2024 Blood Brothers Tour SOUTHAMPTON Tue 27 Feb – Sat 02 Mar 2024 Blood Brothers Tour SHREWSBURY Tue 13 Feb – Sat 17 Feb 2024 Blood Brothers Tour NEW BRIGHTON Tue 06 Feb – Sat 10 Feb 2024 Blood Brothers Tour NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE Tue 30 Jan – Sat 03 Feb 2024 Blood Brothers Tour MALVERN Tue 23 Jan – Sat 27 Jan 2024 Blood Brothers Tour WOKING Tue 16 Jan – Sat 20 Jan 2024 Blood Brothers Tour BRADFORD Tue 31 Oct – Sat 04 Nov 2023 Blood Brothers Tour SAFFRON WALDEN Tue 24 Oct – Sat 28 Oct 2023 Blood Brothers Tour BRIGHTON Tue 03 Oct – Sat 07 Oct 2023 Blood Brothers Tour GUILDFORD Tue 26 Sep – Sat 30 Sep 2023 Blood Brothers Tour IPSWICH Tue 19 Sep – Sat 23 Sep 2023 Blood Brothers Tour OXFORD Tue 12 Sep – Sat 16 Sep 2023 Blood Brothers Tour LICHFIELD Tue 05 Sep – Sat 09 Sep 2023 Blood Brothers Tour BRISTOL Tue 29 Aug – Sat 02 Sep 2023 Blood Brothers Tour CANTERBURY Tue 22 Aug – Sat 26 Aug 2023 Blood Brothers Tour CHELMSFORD Tue 15 Aug – Sat 19 Aug 2023 Blood Brothers Tour LLANDUDNO Tue 08 Aug – Sat 12 Aug 2023 Blood Brothers Tour CAMBRIDGE Tue 01 Aug – Sat 05 Aug 2023 Blood Brothers Tour EASTBOURNE Tue 25 Jul – Sat 29 Jul 2023 Blood Brothers Tour HULL Tue 18 Jul – Sat 22 Jul 2023 Blood Brothers Tour NOTTINGHAM Tue 11 Jul – Sat 15 Jul 2023 Blood Brothers Tour SWANSEA Tue 04 Jul – Sat 08 Jul 2023 Blood Brothers Tour NORWICH Tue 27 Jun – Sat 01 Jul 2023 Blood Brothers Tour CRAWLEY Tue 18 Apr – Sat 22 Apr 2023 Blood Brothers Tour CHELTENHAM Tue 11 Apr – Sat 15 Apr 2023 Blood Brothers Tour HASTINGS Tue 04 Apr – Sat 08 Apr 2023 Blood Brothers Tour COVENTRY Tue 28 Mar – Sat 01 Apr 2023 Blood Brothers Tour WELLINGBOROUGH Tue 21 Mar – Sat 25 Mar 2023 Blood Brothers Tour CREWE Tue 14 Mar – Sat 18 Mar 2023 Blood Brothers Tour SWINDON Tue 07 Mar – Sat 11 Mar 2023 Blood Brothers Tour BROMLEY Tue 28 Feb – Sat 04 Mar 2023 Blood Brothers Tour RICHMOND Tue 21 Feb – Sat 25 Feb 2023 Blood Brothers Tour DUBLIN Tue 07 Feb – Sat 18 Feb 2023 Blood Brothers Tour DERRY / LONDONDERRY Tue 31 Jan – Sat 04 Feb 2023 Blood Brothers Tour CHESTERFIELD Tue 24 Jan – Sat 28 Jan 2023 Blood Brothers Tour SOUTHEND-ON-SEA Tue 17 Jan – Sat 21 Jan 2023 Blood Brothers Tour POOLE Tue 22 Nov – Sat 26 Nov 2022 Blood Brothers Tour AYLESBURY Tue 15 Nov – Sat 19 Nov 2022 Blood Brothers Tour LIVERPOOL Tue 25 Oct – Sat 05 Nov 2022 Blood Brothers Tour SALFORD Tue 18 Oct – Sat 22 Oct 2022 Blood Brothers Tour STOKE-ON-TRENT Tue 27 Sep – Sat 01 Oct 2022 Blood Brothers Tour SUNDERLAND Tue 20 Sep – Sat 24 Sep 2022 Blood Brothers Tour MILTON KEYNES Tue 30 Aug – Sat 03 Sep 2022 Blood Brothers Tour TRURO Tue 26 Apr – Sat 30 Apr 2022 Blood Brothers Tour DERBY Tue 19 Apr – Sat 23 Apr 2022 Blood Brothers Tour YORK Tue 05 Apr – Sat 09 Apr 2022 Blood Brothers Tour PETERBOROUGH Tue 29 Mar – Sat 02 Apr 2022 Blood Brothers Tour HIGH WYCOMBE Tue 22 Mar – Sat 26 Mar 2022 Blood Brothers Tour BARNSTAPLE Tue 15 Mar – Sat 19 Mar 2022 Blood Brothers Tour WIMBLEDON Tue 08 Feb – Sat 12 Feb 2022 Blood Brothers Tour WINDSOR Fri 14 Jan – Sat 29 Jan 2022 Blood Brothers Tour PLYMOUTH Tue 17 Aug – Mon 23 Aug 2021

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Official Website: https://www.bloodbrothersmusical.com

WHAT IS BLOOD BROTHERS THE MUSICAL ABOUT?

Written by Willy Russell, the legendary Blood Brothers tells the captivating and moving tale of twins who, separated at birth, grow up on opposite sides of the tracks, only to meet again with fateful consequences.

Few musicals have received quite such acclaim as the multi-award winning Blood Brothers . Bill Kenwright’s production surpassed 10,000 performances in London’s West End, one of only three musicals ever to achieve that milestone.

It has been affectionately christened the ‘Standing Ovation Musical’, as inevitably it “brings the audience cheering to its feet and roaring its approval” (The Daily Mail).

The superb score includes Bright New Day , Marilyn Monroe and the emotionally charged hit Tell Me It’s Not True .

BLOOD BROTHERS UK TOUR - CAST & CREATIVE

The Blood Brothers cast for the 2024 tour dates (up until Birmingham) is as follows:

• Niki Colwell Evans  – Mrs Johnstone
• Sean Jones  – Mickey
• Joe Sleight – Eddie
• Sarah Jane Buckley  – Mrs Lyons
• Timothy Lucas – Sammy
• Gemma Brodrick – Linda
• Tim Churchill – Mr Lyons
• Alex Harland  – Policeman/Teacher
• Jess Smith  – Brenda
• Chloe Pole  – Donna-Marie/Miss Jones
• Graeme Kinniburgh  – Bus Conductor/Postman
• Josh Capper  – Neighbour

Autumn 2024 Tour casting yet to be confirmed.

Book, Music & Lyrics by Willy Russell

Directed by Bob Tomson and Bill Kenwright

BLOOD BROTHERS TOUR TRAILER - WATCH THE VIDEO!

Listen to music from blood brothers.

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Blood Brothers

Closed: 23 March 2024

Closed: 20 January 2024

Performances begin: 24 September 2024

Performances begin: 15 October 2024

Full cast for 2024 Blood Brothers tour confirmed

The much-loved musical is back

Complete casting has been confirmed for Willy Russell’s hit musical Blood Brothers, which returns for a new tour this month.

Produced by Bill Kenwright Limited (one of four productions the company is taking on the open road this year), the piece will open next week at New Victoria Theatre, Woking from 16 January 2024, before visiting Malvern, New Brighton, Shrewsbury, Southampton, Kings Lynn, Torquay, Billingham, Bath, Leicester and Birmingham.

Niki Colwell-Evans and Sean Jones will continue to play the roles of Mrs Johnstone and Mickey Johnstone respectively, with Gemma Brodrick reprising her role of Linda, and Joe Sleight as Eddie. Playing the Narrator will be Scott Anson ( Miss Saigon). 

Also returning to the cast for 2024 is Timothy Lucas (Sammy), Josh Capper (Neighbour), Sarah Jane Buckley (Mrs Lyons), Tim Churchill (Mr Lyons), Jess Smith (Brenda), Graeme Kinniburgh (Postman/Bus Conductor), Chloe Pole (Donna Marie/ Miss Jones) and Alex Harland (Policeman / Teacher). Playing Perkins will be Danny Knott.

The production was directed by Bob Tomson and Kenwright, while the resident director is Tim Churchill. The piece has design by Andy Walmsley, lighting design by Nick Richings, sound design by Dan Samson and musical direction by Matt Malone.

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• West End & London
• Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2024

Blood Brothers tour

Currently touring until 6 April 2024

Written by Willy Russell, the legendary Blood Brothers tells the captivating and moving tale of twins who, separated at birth, grow up on opposite sides of the tracks, only to meet again with fateful consequences.

Blood Brothers tour dates and tickets

• Dartford , Orchard West 2 April 2024 - 6 April 2024 Book tickets ➤
• Bath , Theatre Royal Bath 9 April 2024 - 13 April 2024 Book tickets ➤
• Curve , Curve Leicester 23 April 2024 - 27 April 2024 Book tickets ➤
• Birmingham , Birmingham Hippodrome 30 April 2024 - 4 May 2024 Book tickets ➤
• Edinburgh , Edinburgh Playhouse 24 September 2024 - 28 September 2024 Book tickets ➤
• Glasgow , King's Theatre 15 October 2024 - 19 October 2024 Book tickets ➤

The iconic Blood Brothers presents a compelling and emotional story of twins separated at birth. They are raised in vastly different circumstances and reunite later in life, leading to a destiny filled with poignant outcomes.

The superb score includes Bright New Day, Marilyn Monroe and the emotionally charged hit Tell Me It’s Not True.

Meet the cast and creative team!

The new 2024 tour cast will see Niki Colwell Evans and Sean Jones continue to play the iconic roles of Mrs Johnstone and Mickey Johnstone respectively, with Gemma Broderick reprising her role of Linda, and Joe Sleight as Eddie.

Also returning to the cast for 2024 is Timothy Lucas (Sammy), Josh Capper (Neighbour), Sarah Jane Buckley (Mrs Lyons), Tim Churchill (Mr Lyons), Jess Smith (Brenda), Graeme Kinniburgh (Postman/Bus Conductor), Chloe Pole (Donna Marie), Alex Harland (Policeman / Teacher) and Danny Knott (Perkins).

The tour is directed by Bob Tomson & Bill Kenwright with musical direction by Matt Malone, sound design by Dan Samson, set and costume design by Andy Walmsley and lighting design by Nick Richings.

About the show

Genre: Musical

Age recommendation and guidance: 12+ No Under 5s allowed in venue. Under 16s must be accompanied at all times by an adult (18+)

Running time: 2 hours 50 minutes incl. interval

More shows on tour

I Should Be So Lucky

Jesus Christ Superstar

Pretty Woman

Blood Brothers - The Musical

Set in Willy Russell's native Liverpool, this international smash hit musical tells the captivating tale of twin boys, separated at birth only to be more...

• Tue Apr 09 Apr 13 Sat Bath Theatre Royal Blood Brothers - The Musical View Tickets

September 2024

• Tue Sep 03 Sep 07 Sat Blackpool Winter Gardens Blood Brothers - The Musical View Tickets
• Tue Sep 24 Sep 28 Sat Edinburgh Playhouse Theatre Blood Brothers - The Musical View Tickets

October 2024

• Tue Oct 15 Oct 19 Sat Glasgow, Kings Theatre Blood Brothers - The Musical View Tickets

November 2024

• Tue Nov 12 Nov 16 Sat Darlington Hippodrome Blood Brothers - The Musical View Tickets
• Tue Nov 19 Nov 30 Sat Manchester, Palace Theatre Blood Brothers - The Musical View Tickets

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Blood Brothers – UK Tour

Blood Brothers is back on tour across the UK in 2023, starring Niki Colwell Evans as Mrs. Johntsone. Bill Kenwright’s “Dazzling” production ( Sunday Telegraph ) of this iconic British musical, with book, music & lyrics by Willy Russell, will play multiple venues across the United Kingdom.

Blood Brothers has seen a variety of revivals across the globe; in the West End, UK tours, Australia, Broadway and even South Africa. Huge stars have featured in the production, and the role of Mrs Johnstone has been played by the likes of  Barbara Dickson, Stephanie Lawrence, the Nolan Sisters, Marti Webb, Carole King and Melanie Chisholm.

Seen by millions all over the world,  Blood Brothers continues to be one of theatre’s favourite musicals. Memorable songs such as “Marilyn Monroe”, “Shoes Upon the Table”, “Easy Terms” and “Tell Me It’s Not True” have become staples of the British musical repertoire.

Blood Brothers is the heart-breaking story of Mickey and Edward, two brothers separated at birth but brought together again through an unlikely friendship. With their familial relationship concealed by their parents, who have striven to keep them apart because of superstitious beliefs, the pair find themselves irreversibly intertwined.

Despite relocating, their lives continue to be tangled, although the deep divisions between Edward’s privileged life and Mickey’s poverty-stricken existence begin to be a burden. As they try to conquer social divisions, their friendship is damaged and they are forced to deal with the harsh realities of class consciousness, with Edward leaving to attend Oxford, whilst Mickey spirals into a life of crime.

As adults, the brothers are caught in a vicious love triangle with Mickey’s childhood sweetheart, Linda. When Mickey is imprisoned, Linda’s subsequent depression forces her into the arms of a conciliatory Edward. A desperate Mickey decides to take action against his fraternal twin, which ultimately exposes their true identities.

38 thoughts on “ Blood Brothers – UK Tour ”

Sadly missed – but I suspect it will be back

One of the Great British musicals – hence it’s long run here and Broadway success.

Hope to see it back soon

What an amazing musical, I was gripped from start to finish.. Very upsetting that it will not be showing any longer at phoenix, I hope they change their mind and bring it back!

it was excellent, i recommend it to all you guys xD

Bob obviously watched something else. I saw Blood Brothers over 100 times, mostly at The Phoenix in the West End, and in many other parts of the country, including The Sunderland Empire. When I went, Mrs Johnstone was always LYN PAUL, and she was brilliant in the role. That`s why Bill Kenwright chose her, out of all the women who have ever led the cast, LYN PAUL is the undisputed definitive “Mrs J” of all time. Bob, the show was not/is not terrible, it is gutsy, down to earth pure theatre. An incredible show, which needed little publicity, or big hit records in the pop charts. It has run, and continues to run all over the world, and it will return in triumph to the West End one day because it is real class. A giant amongst musicals…

I first saw Linda Nolan as “Mrs J”……such a powerful voice from a tiny lady,and to recover from cancer is amazing.

Lyn Paul is THE best Mrs J

OMFG. Best thing Ive ever seen live.

Love love love this. I was going to take my fella. I can’t believe it’s not showing at the moment

Fantastic musical- bob’s obviously got no soul!! See 3 different Nolan sisters and lyn paul as Mrs J- always fantastic – heart wrenching- going to see it again soon in Sheffield with the wonderful Marti pellow- long may it reign

Blood Brothers was one of the best shows that I have seen. It was great and so moving such a great story.

This is one of the worlds greatest theatre productions ever and it should not close

It was the best show i ever seen in London. Can’t wait to see it again.

Saw blood brother when it came to cheltenham a few years ago with school – LOVED IT. Took my boyfriend, mum and her partner to see it last week as it came back to cheltenham again, still amazing and I cannot even describe how fantastic the cast were! Maureen Nolan made an amazing Mrs J and the boys playing Sammy, Eddie and Mickey could not have been cast better!

I went to watch Blood Brothers for the first time in the Sheffield theatre last month. I can honestly say it was the best show I have ever seen! I cried, laughed, even winced slightly at the gun shots. Definitely worth watching!

we are currntly doing this in drama at uni it is a very good play bit of a sad one, i hope yopu all like it cause their will never be on e shown ever again,GOODLUCKGUYSSS!

Can’t believe the tour is closing!!!!!!!! MUST MUST MUST come out on DVD?!? PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE – maybe a recording of the last night of the tour??? best musical ever! Les Mis is currently sold out courtesy of the film, and the same was shown for Phantom and Mamma Mia – BRING OUT A FILM!

A great show. A good story,songs and simple sets can be just as effective and enjoyable as the big lavish productions. I would like to see it again.

This play is what got my love affair with theatre started as a young boy. A truely fantastic musical/play that brought tears and laughter. You’d have to be mad to not like it!!

OMG Love Blood Brothers…did promise my hubby I would stop going to see it on tour and West End when I reached 50 times…. didnt quite manage it made it to 51 :)…. loved it so much and will miss it

this play is amazing x 🙂

Left me feeling as if I had been a part of the story. I was mesmorised from beginning to the end!

I went to see this last night with My lovely friend thank you. . At the Marlowe Theatre Canterbury. What an amazing show iv seen it in the west end & this show was absolutely fantastic too. Such great acting & singing. At some points you could of heard a pin drop with the whole audience focused on the story on stage. Love it but so sad too . .

I am from Canada and was studying in London for a month in 1993. I has no desire to ever see a musical. But one of the other students wanted me to go to one with her. she chose to go to Blood Brothers… it was life changing. I liked it so much I have been going to musicals ever since. It is still my favorite… I listen to the sound track all the time!

Been to see this tonight for the first time and I must say it was incredible so happy I went and would recommend to anyone…… I would happily go and see this again thankyou for an awesome evening

Went to see Blood Brothers last night at #GrandOperaHouseYork It’s the umpteenth time I’ve seen it & it was great but I must say #GemmaBrodrick was SENSATIONAL as Mrs Lyons! I believe she usually portrays the more minor character of Donna-Marie, but stepped up (literally), into the role of the wretched “other mother” last night. She played Mrs Lyons with such gut-wrenching honesty that you could FEEL her desperation & empathise with her as she became more and more broken and terrified. It is all too easy to play this challenging role as a one-dimensional “rich bitch” but Gemma made you really care, and understand what drives Mrs Lyons. Last night I thought her equally as much of a tragedy as the iconic Mrs Johnstone. The only time I’ve ever felt real sympathy for this difficult character & her journey! Bravo Gemma. Mrs J (played by her understudy, Chloe Taylor – who normally plays Mrs. Lyons – do keep up with me won’t you?) was canny, humorous, oozed pathos and still made you feel as if she was the only one who has ever sung that heart-popping song at the inevitable conclusion! Having said that the entire ensemble were excellent, full of verve and energy, with each member putting their own little stamps on characters which are decades old and, in careless hands, could easily become staid & dull. Standing ovation and four curtain calls! They did #WillyRussell proud! Excellent #BloodBrothers

Was an amazing night and a great birthday surprise whilst in York the acting and singing was amazing a very engaging and thought provoking musical

I’ve seen it a few times and loved it.

Brilliant show. Seen it twice now and the end is so full of emotion which can be felt within the music. Cant wait to see it again. Saw it at crewe on the 6th and the actress who plays the mother has such a strong voice and for me she made me feel the emotion of the play

It was magnificent imply outstanding It was great 4 my last year11 trip

I remember watching this is in school and I absolutely loved it. Hoping to watch it again! – great story line

I’ve only seen blood brothers 9 times all at the Phoenix. It is without doubt the best musical to hit the London stage. I’ve seen different stars as Mrs Johnson and they are were brill, the best I saw was a Barbara Dickinson. It’s a tremendous show and one not to be missed and when on in my area I will attempt to get tickets again.

Blood Brothers resonates with me so much because my dad’s family were a poverty stricken family that was moved from a terrace in a poverty stricken area in Liverpool out to Skem. I hold the show close to my heart from the graffiti on the walls on the set , to the Liverpool backdrop and the incredible job the cast always does of our accent. They do us proud each and every time. I’ve only ever seen Blood Brothers at the Empire and needless to say, there is a standing ovation each and every time Blood Brothers comes home <3

I’m sorry I missed the tour, my late husband and I first saw the show in London when it had only been open a short while, with Kiki Dee as Mrs J. Fantastic show, hope it tours again.

I would like to be an actor in blood brothers

What a show by a supreme showman Good Times Bill Kenwright! Perhaps he should concentrate on theatre and retire from ruining football clubs!

Just watched the Southend on Sea performance, WOW. I have never felt such emotion and passion from all the cast. Truly amazing performance and extremely talented, well acted and well sung. Would definitely wat unit again. 5* and AmAzInG

Very sad to see just a conductor and a computer in the pit in the performance in Derry last night. Really missed the live band.

Saw This in Swindon last Evening – Completely blown away, one of the best Musicals I have ever seen inside or outside of London, Fantastic Voices Superb music, and technically spot on the whole cast and crew were on point. A strong story Powerfully portrayed, with an Emotional hit . this is my New favourite

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Blood Brothers

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Blood Brothers Tour 2023 UK | Tour Schedule and tickets

The Blood Brothers 2023 UK Tour is coming to a theatre near you. The Blood Brothers the musical has now been playing theatres in the UK and Ireland since 1983.

BLOOD BROTHERS 2023 UK TOUR

Written by Willy Russell, the legendary Blood Brothers tells the captivating and moving tale of twins who, separated at birth, grow up on opposite sides of the tracks, only to meet again with fateful consequences.

The West End production of Blood Brothers ran for 24 years where it became the third longest-running musical in West End running for over 10,000 performances.

Few musicals have received quite such acclaim as the multi-award-winning Blood Brothers. Bill Kenwright’s production surpassed 10,000 performances in London’s West End, one of only three musicals ever to achieve that milestone. It has been affectionately christened the ‘Standing Ovation Musical’, as inevitably it “brings the audience cheering to its feet and roaring its approval ” (The Daily Mail).

The superb score includes  Bright New Day ,  Marilyn Monroe  and the emotionally charged hit  Tell Me It’s Not True .

BLOOD BROTHERS UK TOUR REVIEWS

“Exhilarating … One of the best musicals ever written” Sunday Times

“Brings the audience cheering to its feet and roaring its approval” The Daily Mail

Read our review.

Join Our Mailing List For Updated Tour Information

BLOOD BROTHERS THE MUSICAL TOUR – FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS.

WHAT IS THE RUNNING TIME OF BLOOD BROTHERS THE MUSICAL?

Blood Brothers the musical runs for 2 hours and 50 minutes including an interval.

WHAT IS BLOOD BROTHERS ABOUT?

Written by Willy Russell, the legendary Blood Brothers the musical tells the captivating and moving tale of twins who, separated at birth, grow up on opposite sides of the tracks, only to meet again with fateful consequences.

WHO WROTE BLOOD BROTHERS?

Blood Brothers started life as a play touring UK schools written by Willy Russell. Russell later adapted the play with music he had written. Willy Russell’s other plays include Educating Rita and Shirley Valentine.

WHO IS IN THE CAST OF BLOOD BROTHERS?

Niki Colwell Evans – Mrs Johnstone Richard Munday – Narrator Sean Jones – Mickey Joe Sleight – Eddie Paula Tappenden – Mrs Lyons Timothy Lucas – Sammy Olivia Sloyan – Linda Tim Churchill – Mr Lyons Nick Wilkes – Policeman/Teacher Amy Murphy – Brenda Gemma Brodrick – Donna-Marie/Miss Jones Jacob Yolland – Bus Conductor/Postman Connor Bannister – Perkins Josh Capper – Neighbour

Blood Brothers 2023 Tour Dates

Norwich Theatre Royal 27 June – 1 July 2023 BOOK TICKETS

Swansea Grand Theatre 4 – 8 July 2023 BOOK TICKETS

Theatre Royal Nottingham 11 – 15 July 2023 BOOK TICKETS

New Theatre Hull 18 – 22 July 2023 BOOK TICKETS

Congress Theatre Eastbourne 25 – 29 July 2023 BOOK TICKETS

Arts Theatre Cambridge 1 – 5 August 2023 BOOK TICKETS

Venue Cymru Llandudnoo 8 – 12 August 2023 BOOK TICKETS

Chelmsford Theatre 15 – 19 August 2023 BOOK TICKETS

Marlowe Theatre Canterbury 22 – 26 August 2023 BOOK TICKETS

Hippodrome Theatre Bristol 29 August – 2 September 2023 BOOK TICKETS

Linchfield Garrick 5 – 9 September 2023 BOOK TICKETS

Oxford Playhouse 12 – 16 September 2023 BOOK TICKETS

Regent Theatre Ipswich 19 – 23 September 2023 BOOK TICKETS

Yvonne Arnaud Theatre Guildford 26 – 30 September 2023 BOOK TICKETS

Theatre Royal Brighton 3 – 7 October 2023 BOOK TICKETS

Bradford Alhambra 31 October – 4 November 2023 BOOK TICKETS

Douglas Mayo has had a life long love affair with musical theatre. He has authored several books on publicity and marketing for amateur theatre groups. He is in the process of developing a musical based on his original story concept.

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Details Revealed For Upcoming Tours of BLOOD BROTHERS, CALENDAR GIRLS, and More in 2024

Learn more about the upcoming touring productions!

Bill Kenwright Ltd has announced their upcoming Spring 2024 touring productions, which include Blood Brothers, Calendar Girls the Musical, Blood Brothers, and Sleuth.

Calendar Girls will embark on tour from 10 January 2024. The tours of Twelve Angry Men and Blood Brothers will both kick off on 16 January, and Sleuth begins its tour on 31 January.

Casting and tour dates have been revealed for all four touring productions.  Learn more about the full lineup below!

CALENDAR GIRLS THE MUSICAL | From 10 January 2024

The girls are back – with even more laughter, more joy, more songs – and bigger iced buns! After opening to rave reviews this autumn, the freshly reimagined UK tour of the smash-hit production Calendar Girls the Musical, written by Gary Barlow and Tim Firth continues in 2024.

Calendar Girls the Musical brings together a stunning cast of music, stage, and television stars. Baring it all in 2024 are Laurie Brett (EastEnders), Helen Pearson (Hollyoaks), Samantha Seager (Coronation Street), Maureen Nolan (The Nolans, Blood Brothers), Lyn Paul (The New Seekers, Blood Brothers), Honeysuckle Weeks (Foyle's War). They are joined by Liz Carney, Colin R Campbell, Andrew Tuton, Jayne Ashley , and Victoria Hay .

The real-life story of the Calendar Girls launched a global phenomenon: a million copycat calendars, a record-breaking movie, stage play and now a musical written by Gary Barlow and Tim Firth which coined the term "craughing" - the act of crying and laughing at the same time! 

With unforgettable songs, every performance continues to add to the millions already raised for Blood Cancer UK and prove that there is no such thing as an ordinary woman. 

Following the death of a much-loved husband, a group of ordinary women in a small Yorkshire Women's Institute are prompted to do an extraordinary thing and set about creating a nude calendar to raise money for charity. But upturning preconceptions is a dangerous business and none of the women are prepared for the emotional and personal ramifications they will face as the fabulous and funny calendar brings each woman unexpectedly into flower.

Calendar Girls Tour Dates

Churchill Theatre, Bromley                                               trafalgartickets.com

Wed 10 Jan – Sat 13 Jan 2024                                            0343 310 0020                                           

The Lowry, Salford                                                                  thelowry.com

Tue 16 Jan – Sat 20 Jan 2024                                                 0161 876 2000

Winter Gardens, Blackpool                                                    wintergardensblackpool.co.uk

Tue 23 Jan – Sat 27 Jan 2024                                                 0844 770 0593

Alhambra Theatre, Bradford                                                   bradford-theatres.co.uk

Tue 30 Jan – Sat 03 Feb 2024                                                 01274 432000

Grand Opera House, York                                                       atgtickets.com/York

Tue 06 Feb – Sat 10 Feb 2024                                                

His Majesty's Theatre, Aberdeen                                       aberdeenperformingarts.com

Tue 13 Feb – Sat 17 Feb 2024                                              01224 641122

Kings Theatre, Glasgow                                                          atgtickets.com/Glasgow

Tue 20 Feb – Sat 24 Feb 2024                                                

Theatre Royal Bath                                                                 theatreroyal.org.uk

Tue 05 March – Sat 09 March 2024                                     01225 448844

Theatre Royal Windsor                                                           theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk

Tue 12 March – Sat 16 March 2024                                      01753 853 888

Aylesbury Waterside Theatre                                                 atgtickets.com/aylesbury

Tue 19 March – Sat 23 March 2024                                      

New Victoria Theatre, Woking                                               atgtickets.com/Woking

Tue 26 March – Sat 30 March 2024                                      

Theatre Royal, Norwich                                                          norwichtheatre.org

Tue 02 April – Sat 06 April 2024                                            01603 630 000

The Hawth, Crawley                                                                hawth.co.uk

Tue 09 April – Sat 13 April 2024                                            01293 553636       

TWELVE ANGRY MEN | From 16 January 2024

Following previous recording-breaking West End seasons, and a critically acclaimed tour in 2023, this powerful production of Twelve Angry Men is back in session and continues across the UK and Ireland in 2024!  

Reginald Rose 's gripping knife-edge courtroom thriller stars Jason Merrells (Casualty, Emmerdale), Tristan Gemmill (Coronation Street, Casualty), Michael Greco (EastEnders, The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes), Ben Nealon (Soldier Soldier, Doctors), Gary Webster (Minder, Family Affairs), and Gray O'Brien (Coronation Street, Peak Practice). 

Completing the cast are Paul Beech, Samarge Hamilton, Jeffrey Harmer , Mark Heenehan , Kenneth Jay , Paul Lavers, and Owen Oldroyd.

Twelve Angry Men has been hailed ‘the classiest, most intelligent drama playing on the West End' with two west end seasons at London's Garrick Theatre starring Martin Shaw followed by Tom Conti . It brings the 1957 three-time Academy Award nominated film, considered one of the great ‘must-sees' of all time, to the stage.  

A jury has murder on their minds and a life in their hands as they decide the fate of a young delinquent accused of killing his father. But what appears to be an open and shut case soon becomes a huge dilemma, as prejudices and preconceived ideas about the accused, the trial, and each other turn the tables every which way, until the nail-biting climax…  

Twelve Angry Men Tour Dates

The Marlowe, Canterbury                                          marlowetheatre.com Tue 16 Jan - Sat 20 Jan 2024                                       01227 787787

The Lighthouse, Poole                                                  lighthousepoole.co.uk Mon 22 Jan - Sat 27 Jan 2024                                     01202 280000

Derby Theatre                                                             derbytheatre.co.uk Mon 29 Jan - Sat 3 Feb 2024                                      01332 59 39 39

Richmond Theatre                                                        atgtickets.com/Richmond

Mon 5 Feb - Sat 10 Feb 2024                                       

Milton Keynes Theatre                                               atgtickets.com/MiltonKeynes

Mon 12 Feb – Sat 17 Feb 2024                                  

His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen                               aberdeenperformingarts.com

Tue 20 Feb – Sat 24 Feb 2024                                     01224 641122

The Lowry, Salford                                                       thelowry.com Tue 27 Feb – Say 2 March 2024                                  0161 876 2000

Festival Theatre, Malvern                                           malvern-theatres.co.uk

Mon 4 March – Sat 9 March 2024                              01684 892277

Yvonne Arnaud Theatre, Guildford                             yvonne-arnaud.co.uk Tue 12 March – Sat 16 March 2024                           01483 44 00 00

Theatre Royal, Windsor                                              theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk Mon 25 March – Sat 30 March 2024                          01753 853888

Lichfield Garrick                                                           lichfieldgarrick.com

Mon 8 April – Sat 13 April 2024                                  01543 412121

Bord Gáis Energy Theatre, Dublin                              bordgaisenergytheatre.ie Tue 16 April – Sat 20 April                                           353 (0) 1 677 7999

The Grand Theatre, Blackpool                                    blackpoolgrand.co.uk

Mon 29 April – Sat 4 May 2024                                  01253 290190

The Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton                         grandtheatre.co.uk Mon 6 May – Sat 11 May 2024                                   01902 42 92 12

BLOOD BROTHERS | From 16 January 2024

The legendary, award-winning production of the international smash hit musical, Blood Brothers continues to tour across the UK. The much-loved musical, known for sell out houses across the country, returns in the new year starting at the New Victoria Theatre, Woking from 16 January 2024.

Niki Colwell Evans and Sean Jones  will continue to play the iconic roles of Mrs Johnstone and Mickey Johnstone respectively, with Gemma Broderick reprising her role of Linda, and Joe Sleight  as Eddie.

Also returning to the cast for 2024 is Timothy Lucas (Sammy), Josh Capper (Neighbour), Sarah Jane Buckley (Mrs Lyons), Tim Churchill (Mr Lyons), Jess Smith (Brenda), Graeme Kinniburgh (Postman/Bus Conductor), Chloe Pole (Donna Marie) and Alex Harland (Policeman / Teacher) with further casting to be announced.

Award-winning playwright  Willy Russell 's epic tale of Liverpool life started as a play, performed at a Liverpool comprehensive school in 1981, before opening at  The Liverpool Playhouse  in 1983. The musical has since triumphed across the globe, completing sell out seasons in the US, Australia, Canada, New Zealand and Japan. Few musicals have been received with such acclaim as the multi-award-winning Blood Brothers, scooping up four awards for Best Musical in London and seven Tony Award nominations on Broadway, it is considered 'one of the best musicals ever written' (Sunday Times).  Bill Kenwright Ltd.'s production surpassed 10,000 performances in London's West End, one of only three musicals ever to achieve that milestone. 

Blood Brothers tells the captivating and moving tale of twins separated at birth, who grow up on the opposite sides of the tracks, only to meet again with tragic consequences.  

When Mrs Johnstone, a young mother, is deserted by her husband and left to her own devices to provide for seven hungry children she takes a job as a housekeeper to make ends meet. It is not long before her brittle world crashes around her when she discovers herself to be pregnant yet again - this time with twins! In a moment of weakness and desperation, she enters a secret pact with her employer which leads inexorably to the show's shattering climax.

Blood Brothers Tour Dates

New Victoria Theatre, Woking                                   atgtickets.com/Woking Tue 16 Jan - Sat 20 Jan 2024                                      

Festival Theatre, Malvern                                               malvern-theatres.co.uk Tue 23 Jan - Sat 27 Jan 2024                                       01684 892277

Floral Pavilion Theatre, New Brighton                       floralpavilion.com Tue 06 Feb - Sat 10 Feb 2024                                      0151 666 0000

Theatre Severn, Shrewsbury                                       theatresevern.co.uk Tue 13 Feb - Sat 17 Feb 2024                                      01743 281281

Mayflower Theatre, Southampton                             mayflower.org.uk Tue 27 Feb - Sat 2 Mar 2024                                           02380 711811

Alive Corn Exchange, Kings Lynn                                 kinglslynncornexhange.co.uk Tue 12 March - Sat 16 March 2024                             01553 764864

Princess Theatre, Torquay                                          atgtickets.com/Torquay Tue 19 March - Sat 23 March 2024                           

Forum Theatre, Billingham                                          forumtheatrebillingham.co.uk Tue 26 March - Sat 30 March 2024                             01642 552663

Theatre Royal, Bath                                                    theatreroyal.org.uk

Tue 9 April – Sat 13 April                                            01225 448844

Curve, Leicester                                                           curveonline.co.uk Tue 23 April - Sat 27 April 2024                                   0116 242 3595

Birmingham Hippodrome                                            birminghamhippodrome.com Tue 30 April - Sat 4 May 2024                                     0844 338 5000

SLEUTH | From 31 January 2024

Anthony Shaffer 's masterpiece, directed by the award-winning Rachel Kavanaugh (The RSC/Chichester Festival Theatre), Sleuth will be taking to the stage in 2024 with Todd Boyce (Coronation Street's notorious baddie, Stephen Reid) and Neil McDermott (EastEnders, The Royal) set to star.

This dark psychological ‘thriller about thrillers' makes for an intriguing study of human conflict, jealousy, and manipulation. Proving to be far more than a ‘whodunnit', it promises to baffle even the most proficient sleuth! 

Sleuth is one of the greatest ever stage thrillers and played for a total of 12 years in both London and New York, winning the Tony Award for Best Play. It also became the inspiration for the hugely successful film starring Laurence Olivier and Michael Caine . From next year audiences up and down the UK will get the chance to see this award-winning play, starting at Theatre Royal Windsor from 31 January 2024, touring into the spring.

A young man arrives at the impressive home of a famous mystery writer, only to be unwittingly drawn into a tangled web of intrigue and gamesmanship, where nothing is quite as it seems...

Sleuth Tour Dates

Theatre Royal, Windsor                                              theatreroyalwindsor.co.uk Wed 31 Jan - Sat 10 Feb 2024                                    01753 853888

Theatre Royal, Bath                                                     theatreroyal.org.uk Mon 12 Feb - Sat 17 Feb 2024                                     01225 448844

Princess Theatre, Torquay                                         atgtickets.com/Torquay Tue 19 Feb - Sat 24 Feb 2024                                        

Grand Opera House, York                                            atgtickets.com/York Mon 26 Feb - Sat 2 March 2024                                

Devonshire Park Theatre, Eastbourne                       eastbournetheatres.co.uk Mon 4 March - Sat 9 March 2024                               01323 412000

Alhambra Theatre, Bradford                                        bradford-theatres.co.uk Wed 13 March - Sat 16 March 2024                            01274 432000

Palace Theatre, Southend                                trafalgartickets.com/palace-theatre-southend

Mon 25 March - Sat 30 March 2024                            0343 310 0030

Mon 8 April – Sat 13 April 2024                                  01684 892277

Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham                                 everymantheatre.org.uk

Mon 15 April – Sat 20 April 2024                                01242 572 573

Yvonne Arnaud, Guildford                                           yvonne-arnaud.co.uk Mon 22 April – Sat 27 April 2024                                01483 44 00 00

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Written by Willy Russell, the legendary BLOOD BROTHERS tells the captivating and moving tale of twins who, separated at birth, grow up on opposite sides of the tracks, only to meet again with fateful consequences.  

Few musicals have received quite such acclaim as the multi-award winning BLOOD BROTHERS. Bill Kenwright's production surpassed 10,000 performances in London's West End, one of only three musicals ever to achieve that milestone. It has been affectionately christened the 'Standing Ovation Musical', as inevitably it “brings the audience cheering to its feet and roaring its approval” (The Daily Mail).  

The superb score includes Bright New Day , Marilyn Monroe and the emotionally charged hit Tell Me It's Not True.   

'EXHILARATING...ONE OF THE BEST MUSICALS EVER WRITTEN' 

SUNDAY TIMES   

'A TRIUMPHANT EVENING... UNMISSABLE AND UNBEATABLE' 

THE SPECTATOR 

'BRINGS THE AUDIENCE CHEERING TO ITS FEET AND ROARING ITS APPROVAL' 

THE DAILY MAIL 

***** 

'DAZZLING' 

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH 

'TERRIFIC' 

SUNDAY EXPRESS   

'GRITTY, GRIPPING, SUPERB' 

MAIL ON SUNDAY 

16 Apr       7.30pm 17 Apr       2.30pm & 7.30pm 18 Apr       2.30pm & 7.30pm 19 Apr       7.30pm 20 Apr       2.30pm & 7.30pm

Friday and Saturday Evenings  Price Band A: £37.80 Price Band B:   £32.40 Weekday Evenings and Weekend Matinees Price Band A: £34.20 Price Band B:   £28.80 Weekday Matinees  Price Band A: £28.80 Price Band B:   £22.50

Friday and Saturday Evenings  Price Band A: £42.00 Price Band B:   £36.00 Weekday Evenings and Weekend Matinees Price Band A: £38.00 Price Band B:   £32.00 Weekday Matinees  Price Band A: £32.00 Price Band B:   £25.00

Groups Groups 8+ Save 10% Groups 15+ Save 20% Groups 50+ Save 30%

Schools Tuesday - Thursday: £15.00

Book online, by phone or contact  Group Bookings

Running Time: 75 Mins | 20 Min Interval | 75 Mins

Age Restriction: 12+

This show contains imitation firearms, gunshots, haze, depictions of mental illness and occasional strong language

For specific access requests including wheelchair bookings or general access information please contact the theatre Ticket Sales team on 01892 554441 (Mon to Fri, 9am-5pm and Sat, 12pm-5pm).

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Review: Blood Brothers packs an emotional punch

BLOOD BROTHERS

GRAND OPERA HOUSE

UNTIL SATURDAY AUGUST 13

THE opening scene and the closing scene are the same and in between we are treated to the story of two families, two mothers and two sons.

Analysis: Potential dilemma for DUP in Lagan Valley

The Price of Peace: Respect and Tolerance – On This Day in 1974

Mrs Johnstone (Niki Colwell Evans) is a working class woman with a husband who leaves her for a younger model who looks like Marilyn Monroe, walking out on his seven children and twins on the way.

This is a terrible shock as she is only just making ends meet - one more mouth to feed she says she can manage but not two. She confides this worry to the woman who employs her as a cleaner.

Mrs Lyons (Paula Tappenden) is wealthy, has a big house, a successful husband but money can’t buy her happiness - the child she longs for.

But wait - money can buy her a baby, although as we find out, not happiness. The women swear on the Bible, one to give up a baby, the other to promise to raise it as her own.

The boys are born, the women meet and Mrs Lyons picks up one from the pram and heads home.

Despite the promise that Mrs J will be there every day and be able to watch her son grow up it doesn’t work out, she becomes too possessive and is paid off - £50 to leave her employment never to return. Shades of wealth dominating poverty, even today.

The play is set in Liverpool with Everton scrawled on the back wall and the Liver Building towering above.

Mickey (Sean Jones) is just seven going on eight when we meet him, a boisterous boy playing cowboys and Indians with his mates and hero worshiping his older brother Sammy (Timothy Lucas), a rough diamond and far from a good example. The family are living on the ‘never never’, debts mount up and it’s rough.

Up on the hill in the big houses the other family is thriving; young Edward (Jay Worley) lacks for nothing, goes to a good school, has good manners but something is missing in his young life.

When he wanders down towards the housing estate he bumps into Mickey and they strike up a friendship - they were born on the same day and they bond.

Mickey takes out a knife, and pricks his thumb and then Eddie’s, and, thumb to thumb, they become blood brothers.

Eddie’s education is extended with his brother’s street vocabulary and when he announces ‘shag the vicar’ in his plummy voice the audience erupts with laughter - although there is worse than that... The audience likes Eddie but they love Mickey.

There is always a brooding atmosphere on stage which filters into the audience, the narrator (Richard Munday) brings the story along talking about gloom and doom, the bogeyman, and how it will all end in tears.

Act two begins bright and breezy, the gabble of children playing is replaced by 18-year-olds, and splits begin to appear between the blood brothers.

Mickey marries his girlfriend Linda (Carly Burns) but loses his job, is down and out, becomes a depressive; the Narrator reminds us that he warned of "a price to pay".

And that price is brutal and unexpected. It brings tears and a standing ovation. As in birth, in death the two boys die at the same time on the same day, beside each other.

This is a famous play from the pen of Willy Russell and the cast, especially in the second act, cast a spell and the set changes from one scene to another swiftly and efficiently.

The music is always there, the songs plaintive - especially Marilyn Monroe and Tell Me It’s Not True, sung powerfully by Niki Colwell Evans.

Try and catch this musical, you won’t be disappointed.

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Giving you the best recommendations

Blood Brothers (Touring) ★★★★★

Willy Russell’s musical theatre classic Blood Brothers is on tour four decades after it first played in London’s West End. The Recs asks if it’s still worth a visit?

Picture the scene: it’s the early 1990s. Around twenty past ten at night. Charing Cross Road is suddenly filled with people whose eyes are red and blinking. Fast forward to the present day. Outside Richmond Theatre. Around twenty past ten again and once more the pavement is filled again with people whose eyes are warm and wet. It’s a very visual demonstration that Willy Russell’s Blood Brothers has lost none of its emotional punch over the intervening years. 

The story of two twins, separated at birth, one raised in wealth, the other in poverty, with fateful consequences, still has a sharp contemporary resonance with the class divide writ large in 2023. The differing impact of the current cost of living crisis, the rise of food banks, health inequalities and poverty disproportionately continuing to affect life chances and outcomes, it becomes clear quite how visionary Russell’s one act play that became this legendary musical truly was. Lyrics from  Miss Jones : “Due to the world situation / The shrinking pound / the global slump / And the price of oil” could be culled from today’s newspapers’ headline. 

Always a mix of Northern grit, grim and giggles, the current UK cast deliver the charm and the guts of a show that has moved from being a contemporary musical theatre to become a vital period piece. Still on the schools curriculum, The Recs smiled in amusement at what school children would make of references to giros, the dole and catalogues. Different times indeed!

Joe Sleight as Eddie, the twin brought up in the posh Lyons household, makes the most of the more thankless role of the two. Sean Jones , as the working-class Mickey, delivers the comedy schtick of the younger self with requisite energy but is more impressive as the pill-popping, depressed older self. Jones nails Russell’s polemic anger at how good people can be ruined by adverse economic circumstances entirely beyond their control. 

While songs such as  Easy Terms ,  Bright New Day and  Marilyn Monroe  as timeless as always, ultimately  Blood Brothers ‘ success or otherwise rests on the much put-upon shoulders of Mrs Johnstone. A powerhouse role that has been played by such musical luminaries as Barbara Dickson, Kiki Dee, Melanie C, Bernie Nolan, Carole King (on Broadway), the Liverpudlian matriarch has some big shoes to fill. 

Niki Colwell Evans , known for appearing in the fourth series of the UK’s  X Factor as well musicals such as  Legally Blonde and  Kinky Boots , takes on the pivotal role in this tour. As well as a perfect Scouse accent, Evans’ vocal phrasing is exquisite. Mrs Johnstone’s longing and sense of loss are superbly threaded throughout her performance. The passion and nuance she gives to her character’s maternal journey lends a relatability and a realism to the show’s emotional core. Because of the honesty of her acting and her compelling vocal prowess, by the time she reaches a tear-stained  Tell Me It’s Not True , Niki Colwell Evans has established herself as up there with the very best Mrs Johnstones.

Blood Brothers  is not without its faults. It wears its sentimentality heavily on its sleeve. The adults-as-7-year-olds section is still excruciatingly long. And Russell’s superstition trope feels outdated and overworked. 

However, the underlying politics of economic inequality and the indefatigable set of musical numbers (brilliantly played by musical director Matt Malone ‘s six piece band) ensures that the show remains an important and needed British musical. In the hands of the 2023 UK touring cast,  Blood Brothers is essential viewing. 

Blood Brothers   was reviewed on tour at Richmond Theatre

We’re not saying a word…other than brilliant! ★★★★★

Blood Brothers Tickets

The  Blood Brothers tour visits Richmond, Bromley, Swindon, Crewe, Wellingborough, Coventry, Hastings, Cheltenham, Crawley and Sheffield

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Blood Brothers

Date : 15/03/2013

Venue: Riverside Theatre

Address: University of Ulster, Coleraine

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Blood Brothers

The tale of twins separated at birth, who grow up on opposite sides of the tracks, only to meet again with tragic consequences.

Lyn Paul returns for her farewell tour in the iconic role of Mrs Johnstone, which she first made her own in London’s West End.

Completing the cast are Hannah Barr (Brenda), Joel Benedict (Eddie), Josh Capper (Neighbour), Tim Churchill (Mr Lyons), Danielle Corlass (Linda), Grace Galloway (Donna Marie / Miss Jones), Andy Owens (Perkins), Alex Patmore (Mickey), Robbie Scotcher (Narrator), Paula Tappenden (Mrs Lyons) and Danny Taylor (Sammy).

Performances

Willy Russell

Ambassador Theatre Group

New Victoria Theatre, Woking

23 – 27 November 2021

Book, music and lyrics by Willy Russell

The Lyric, Theatre Royal Plymouth

13 – 21 August 2021

Bill Kenwright

Liverpool Empire

21 September – 1 October 2016

Bill Kenwright by arrangement with Bob Swash

The Hawth, Crawley

12 – 17 October 2015

Book, music and lyrics by Willie Russell

Palace Theatre, Manchester

2 – 14 March 2015

Produced by Bill Kenwright

New Theatre Oxford

Darlington Civic Theatre

Theatre Royal, Newcastle

Edinburgh Festival Theatre

Book, lyrics and music by Willy Russell.

Belgrade Theatre, Coventry

Empire, Sunderland

“Extra special” shows at Birmingham Hippodrome

23 November 2023

Blood Brothers back

6 September 2022

What's on in the Midlands

17 April 2022

26 February 2022

What's on in the North East

30 January 2022

Blood Brothers back on tour

19 January 2022

All information was correct to the best of our knowledge from details supplied to us but may be subject to change or inaccuracies. Please contact the companies or venues to confirm details.

* Some links, including Amazon, Stageplays.com, Bookshop.org, ATG Tickets, LOVEtheatre, BTG Tickets, Ticketmaster, The Ticket Factory, LW Theatres and QuayTickets, are affiliate links for which BTG may earn a small fee at no extra cost to the purchaser.

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North West End UK

News, Reviews and Interviews from theatres across the UK

Blood Brothers – Floral Pavilion

Floral Pavilion, New Brighton welcomes Willy Russell’s Blood Brothers back for the start of its 2024 UK tour and tonight’s full house audience were lucky enough to be there to witness it. This venue is the nearest venue to the story’s origins of Liverpool on this tour and the audiences are fully behind this show with an almost sold-out week, give or take a few single seats throughout before the show has even opened.

Directed by Bob Tomson and the late Bill Kenwright, this classic musical has been entertaining the masses for over 40 years and is a favourite that has audience members returning time and time again.

The joy with this show is not just the story, but the music, the heart and the cast who return over and over to the point they become part of the family.

Returning to the Floral Pavilion just a few weeks after finishing performing together in the Floral Pavilion Christmas panto are Sean Jones and Joe Sleight as the Johnstone twins, Mickey and Eddie. Both returning to the roles and a joy to see on stage, Sleight was part of the 2015 UK tour, returning to save the day in 2022, now taking over the role of Eddie full time. And the incredible Jones, who is in his 25 th year with the show and still manages to bring a freshness and innocence to the role, we are in very safe hands here.

Returning to the role of Mrs Johnstone is Niki Colwell Evans who has the most beautiful vocals, that have the audience in the palm of her hands and Scott Anson, returning to the role of the Narrator 20 years later, a character who is always there, waiting and observing. Anson brings a darkness to the role that gives you chills. Blood Brothers is a story of love, loss, and friendship, and we see a great deal of that on stage with this hugely talented cast. Delivering heart-breaking performances, with songs such as Easy Terms, I’m Not Saying A Word and the tear jerking Tell Me It’s Not True, this cast take us on a journey and a half, from innocent children playing in the street and making innocent promises “Do you want to be Blood Brothers” to crazed, jealous fuelled rampage “Madman” we are shown why this show runs on and on and has the audience drawn back time and time again.

Opening nights rarely go without a hitch and there were a few lighting issues, especially with spotlights and one or two mic issues but these can be forgiven in the grand scheme of the full story. Lighting designed by Nick Richings is creative, atmospheric, and completely changes the mood when needs to, with sound designed by Dan Samson, helping bring the whole piece together. I felt there were a few issues when it came to accents with a couple of cast members, possibly due to it being opening night, they were a little all over the place and I felt that some cast were maybe focussing too much on getting an accent perfect that it took away from what they were saying, occasionally coming across mumbled or spoken much too fast. Hopefully, they will relax a little more in the roles, as mentioned earlier, most of these are returning to the roles and have done it incredibly before.

The band, led by Matt Malone, sounded incredible and worked hand in hand with the cast to allow the story to be told how it should and the emotion time to be felt.

With the whole audience ending the show in tears followed by a full standing ovation, this gives the cast and the show the utmost credit it deserves.

Blood Brothers runs at the Floral Pavilion until Saturday 10 th February 2024 before going off on its tour. The last few tickets are available at https://www.floralpavilion.com/

Reviewer Damian Riverol

Reviewed: 6 th February 2024

North West End UK Rating:

• 2019 – The Status
• Tours & Tracks
• Hits That Are Still Trending
• Tracks Listing

The Blood Brothers were a band known for their never-ending tours which took them for up to several years on the road to promote each of their albums. Their live shows were completely explosive as it can be seen on every live video on YouTube like this 2003 Colorado show in which they don´t stop interacting with the audience, jumping around and playing killer songs at the same time.

Hiatus And Reunion

After the band dismembered on 2007 after ten years of non-stop activity , they reunited for a full tour to play old-time songs as well as brand new classics on 2014. The results of that tour were a massive acclaim since the spot left vacant by them and other bands like At the Drive-In were not filled with any other newer act.

Fans were anxious and expecting they would come out with brand new material, but we will have to wait for that to happen if ever.

This incredible in-depth interview made by our pals at noisey.com with Jordan Billie explains from the sight of another fan just how important it is for the music itself that bands like The Blood Brothers exist.

Where To Find Them

They are no longer active, but the music remains, the music always remains! Their legacy can be enjoyed on other acts but most importantly, they have never stopped making music with other formations like Head Wound City, the super band still active today, Jaguar Love featuring both Johnny Whitney and Cody Votolato and Neon Blonde featuring Whitney and drummer Mark Gajadhar.

Morgan Henderson is a little more difficult to track since he´s been up to so much lately, but his work with the Fleet Foxes in 2011 is to me some of his best to this date.

As for the band itself, all albums, highlights, interviews and main tracks both recorded and live can be found on YouTube . Also, Spotify is a great way to find their music and take it everywhere you go with you.

All five albums are uploaded in excellent quality and if you´re a premium member you can download them to your phone, tablet, computer or old-school MP3 player

to listen to these Alternative Wonders all day long wherever you are.

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07 - 18 February 2023

BLOOD BROTHERS

Produced by BILL KENWRIGHT

This event is in the past, please search for other shows.

Willy Russell’s legendary musical returns to Bord Gáis Energy Theatre. Starring Rebecca Storm as Mrs Johnstone

Age Guidance 12+. No Under 3’s permitted in the auditorium

This production may contain strobe lighting, flashing lights, gunshot sound effects, loud noises, smoke and haze.

Access Performance Schedule:

Thursday 16 February 2023:  ISL Performance

Written by Willy Russell, the legendary BLOOD BROTHERS tells the captivating and moving tale of twins who, separated at birth, grow up on opposite sides of the tracks, only to meet again with fateful consequences.

Few musicals have received quite such acclaim as the multi-award winning BLOOD BROTHERS . Bill Kenwright’s production surpassed 10,000 performances in London’s West End, one of only three musicals ever to achieve that milestone.

Tell me it's not true

It has been affectionately christened the ‘Standing Ovation Musical’, as inevitably it “brings the audience cheering to its feet and roaring its approval” ( The Daily Mail ).

The superb score includes Bright New Day , Marilyn Monroe and the emotionally charged hit Tell Me It’s Not True .

“Exhilarating, one of the best musicals ever written” The Sunday Times

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16 - 20 April 2024

1 Night Only, Concert

The nelson riddle orchestra.

28 April 2024

23 April - 04 May 2024

Drama, Musical

I should be so lucky.

07 - 11 May 2024

13 TONGUES- CLOUD GATE DANCE THEATRE OF TAIWAN

14 - 15 May 2024

VLADIMIR JABLOKOV – 4 SEASONS EXPLAINED WITH THE RTÉ CONCERT ORCHESTRA

24 - 25 May 2024

ANGUS AND JULIA STONE

26 May 2024

WIZARD OF OZ

28 May - 08 June 2024

1 Night Only

An evening with margaret atwood, mary robinson and laurie anderson. .

09 June 2024

COME FROM AWAY

11 - 22 June 2024

MARTY IN THE EVENING WITH THE RTÉ CONCERT ORCHESTRA

26 June 2024

NATHAN CARTER

27 June 2024

UNCANNY : I KNOW WHAT I SAW

28 June 2024

PRETTY WOMAN: THE MUSICAL

02 - 13 July 2024

1 Night Only, Dance

Anton du beke & giovanni pernice- together.

14 - 14 July 2024

BONNIE AND CLYDE

16 - 20 July 2024

23 July - 14 September 2024

Daniel O’Donnell

12 August 2024

17 September - 16 November 2024

AN AUDIENCE WITH MONTY DON

03 November 2024

AN EVENING WITH FRAN LEBOWITZ

SWAN LAKE – STATE BALLET OF GEORGIA

20 - 24 November 2024

DR STRANGELOVE

05 - 22 February 2025

& JULIET

25 February - 08 March 2025

CHRIS DE BURGH

09 March 2025

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