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Posted: Friday 28 October, 2011
“Did you ever hear the story of the Johnston twins…?” In their latest production Next Stage Youth brought Willy Russell’s Blood Brothers to life with a small but impressive cast which did justice to the original play.
The story follows the lives of twin brothers, separated at birth and raised in very different circumstances, becoming friends at a young age but ultimately colliding when they fall in love with the same woman.
It is beautifully dark, with subtle elements of humour. The narrator acts as a sinister puppeteer, guiding the characters on to their fateful paths and making the story run smoothly, and there is contrast between Mrs Johnston and Mrs Lyons, two mothers who want the best for their sons but execute this very differently.
All of the actors give incredibly mature and convincing performances and Holly Bodimeade and Gabriel Kemp were particularly engaging as Mrs Johnston and Mickey.
The lack of musical numbers allows the play to be both sinister and thought-provoking, with the themes of fate and fortune having a constant presence. The cast has brilliant chemistry, and manages to keep the audience hooked right up to the dramatic conclusion.
The cast may be young, but their performances were assured and professional. It was a memorable production which plays with your mind long after you’ve seen it.
Abi Polding, Bath Chronicle