REVIEW - BLOOD BROTHERS | THE LOWRY | 18/11/2025

Blood Brothers at The Lowry – A Timeless, Heart-Shattering Classic That Still Hits Like the First Time

Blood Brothers is one of those rare musicals that never seems to lose its grip on audiences — and I’m absolutely one of them. Returning to The Lowry for another UK tour, this beloved Willy Russell masterpiece first debuted in 1983 and went on to enjoy an extraordinary 24-year West End run. I’ve seen it several times over the years, and each visit brings back that same mix of nostalgia, anticipation, and awe.

At its heart, Blood Brothers is a sweeping, deeply human story about family, class, superstition and the impossible weight of fate. The musical follows Mrs Johnstone, a struggling single mother in Liverpool who makes the heartbreaking decision to give away one of her newborn twins to her wealthy employer, Mrs Lyons, in the desperate hope that both babies might have a better life than she can offer alone.

The twins — Mickey and Eddie — are raised in completely different worlds: Mickey in the lively, chaotic, working-class Johnstone home, and Eddie in the quiet order and privilege of the Lyons household. Russell’s writing draws these contrasts beautifully, showing how class and opportunity can shape two lives from the very beginning.

What makes the story so compelling is the way it slowly intertwines their paths. Despite being separated, the boys meet by chance at seven years old, instantly become inseparable, and make their charmingly innocent vow to become “blood brothers”. Their friendship grows through childhood, teenage years and adulthood, constantly resurfacing even as their circumstances push them further apart.

As time moves on, the cracks begin to show. Mickey faces unemployment, hardship, and the emotional scars that come with a system weighted against him, while Eddie enjoys education, security and prospects. Their shared love for Linda gently evolves from childhood friendship into something far more complicated, leading to tensions neither brother understands until it’s too late.

All the while, the Narrator’s presence emphasises the looming sense of superstition and destiny — the constant reminder of the prophecy that the twins will die on the day they discover the truth. And even when you know what’s coming, watching their journeys unfold — side by side yet worlds apart — makes the final moments unbearably tragic.

The staging maintains everything audiences love about this long-running production. Andy Walmsley’s design effortlessly shifts between the cramped, bustling Johnstone home, the polished Lyons household and the surrounding Liverpool streets. Housing structures frame both sides of the stage — terraced council homes on one side, a neatly kept middle-class property on the other — instantly establishing the social divide that anchors the story.

Doorways and alleyways allow the cast to weave in and out seamlessly, creating a world that feels alive and constantly in motion. Interiors such as classrooms and living rooms descend smoothly into place, transforming the stage without interrupting the story’s pace. Every transition feels intentional, reinforcing the contrast between the twins’ lives in a way that is simple yet incredibly effective.

The costumes are equally thoughtful, grounded in the era while helping to underline the class divide. The Johnstones’ clothing is practical and worn, reflecting the realities of working-class Liverpool, while the Lyons family appear tidy, polished and quietly affluent. Even the boys’ costumes evolve with their journeys — Mickey’s becoming rougher and more distressed, Eddie’s remaining neat and structured — subtly mirroring how differently life unfolds for them.

Musically, the show retains the charm of its 1980s roots. The live band delivers a rich, full sound that supports the storytelling beautifully. The music drives the emotional undercurrent of the production without ever overpowering it, giving key moments weight and allowing the lyrics to land with clarity and heart. Familiar melodies weave throughout the show, tying the characters’ journeys together and building towards a finale that feels as haunting and impactful as ever. Iconic numbers such as “Marilyn Monroe” and “Tell Me It’s Not True” are delivered with all the heart and intensity they call for.

This cast delivered a truly outstanding performance from start to finish, led by an exceptional company who brought depth, nuance and emotional weight to every moment on stage.

Vivienne Carlyle is sensational as Mrs Johnstone. She captures every layer of the character — warmth, strength, fear and heartbreak — and her vocals are phenomenal. “Marilyn Monroe” is beautifully delivered, but it’s “Tell Me It’s Not True” that stopped the audience in its tracks.

As Mickey, Sean Jones once again proves why he is so synonymous with this role. His ability to transition from playful childhood innocence to the complexities and pain of adult life is extraordinary and utterly compelling.

Joe Sleight gives a charming, heartfelt performance as Eddie. His energy beautifully complements Jones’, and together they create a brotherly connection that feels completely natural.

Paula Tappenden brings a poised and emotionally layered portrayal as Mrs Lyons, capturing the character’s fragility and unravelling with precision.

Gemma Brodrick is wonderful as Linda, delivering both warmth and emotional intensity, especially as the story reaches its tragic climax.

At this performance, Graeme Kinniburgh stepped in as Sammy, offering a strong, convincing performance that highlighted just how vital understudies are to the heartbeat of live theatre.

Kristofer Harding delivers a gripping and powerful turn as the Narrator. His presence is magnetic — dark, steady, and quietly commanding. Every time he appears, the atmosphere shifts, and his vocals underscore the tension beautifully.

The supporting ensemble add richness and texture throughout, including Tim Churchill (Mr Lyons), Alex Harland (Policeman), Francesca Benton-Stace (Donna Marie/Miss Jones), Dominic Gore (Postman/Bus Conductor), Danny Knott (Perkins), and Latesha Karisa (Brenda). Every performer contributes to building the world of the story with authenticity and energy.

This production of Blood Brothers at The Lowry reminded me exactly why this musical remains one of the most treasured pieces of British theatre. Even after four decades, its blend of humour, heartbreak and social commentary still feels powerful, relevant and deeply human.

What truly stands out is how completely this cast draws the audience into Mickey and Eddie’s world — the warmth, the humour, the slow-burning heartbreak and that devastating final moment. It’s a story that never loses its emotional force, no matter how many times you return to it.

A British musical masterpiece that lingers long after the curtain falls.

Blood Brothers is at The Lowry until Saturday 22nd November 2025. Tickets are available for purchase through the link provided below.

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If you would like more information about the show, please click the button below to visit the show's official website.

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Photo Credit - Jack Merriman

*Our tickets for this show were kindly gifted in exchange for an honest review.