Few productions have achieved the enduring reputation of Blood Brothers, yet this touring production at Richmond Theatre more than justifies the acclaim surrounding Willy Russell’s classic musical. Powerful, emotional and brilliantly performed throughout, it is an absolute triumph from start to finish.
For those unfamiliar with the story, Blood Brothers follows twin brothers separated at birth and raised in vastly different worlds within post-war Liverpool. One grows up in poverty and hardship, the other in comfort and privilege, with their lives repeatedly crossing as they grow older. The narrative explores class, fate and family with remarkable emotional weight, building steadily towards a devastating conclusion.
Vivienne Carlyle is exceptional as Mrs Johnstone, delivering vocals that are warm, sincere and powerfully emotive in all the right moments. Her performance anchors the production throughout and brings genuine heart to the role. Equally impressive is Kristofer Harding as the Narrator, whose commanding stage presence and superb vocals provide a constant sense of tension and foreboding across the evening.
The wider cast are excellent throughout. In particular, Alex Harland and Graeme Kinniburgh deserve praise for seamlessly portraying multiple characters across the production, each performance feeling distinct and fully realised.
Having never seen Blood Brothers before, I arrived with very high expectations based on others’ praise. I left understanding entirely why the production remains so beloved decades after its debut. It is gripping, moving, and beautifully staged theatre.
Richmond Theatre itself is a stunning venue and perfectly suited to the production. For those booking in the stalls, however, I would recommend sitting no further back than Row K for the best overall experience.
This is essential viewing and a production I cannot recommend highly enough.
Review by Ryan Collins
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 superb score includes Bright New Day, Marilyn Monroe and the emotionally charged hit Tell Me It’s Not True.
Vivienne Carlyle – Mrs Johnstone
Kristofer Harding – Narrator
Sean Jones – Mickey
Joe Sleight – Eddie
Gemma Brodrick – Linda
Laura Harrison – Mrs Lyons
Michael Gillette – Sammy
Tim Churchill – Mr Lyons
Alex Harland – Policeman
Francesca Benton-Stace – Donna Marie/Mrs Jones
Graeme Kinniburgh – Postman/Bus Conductor
Danny Knott – Perkins
Dominic Gore – Neighbour
Latesha Karisa – Brenda
Directed by Bob Tomson & Bill Kenwright
Resident Director – Tim Churchill
Musical Supervisor – Matt Malone
Design by Andy Walmsley
Lighting design by Nick Richings
Sound design by Dan Samson
BLOOD BROTHERS
Book Tickets for Richmond Theatre
12 to 16 May 2026
