Blood Brothers
****
Wed 18 September, New Theatre, Cardiff
The third longest-running musical in West End history and GCSE English Lit staple, Blood Brothers, returns to the stage literally kicking and screaming with life. This rendition of the tale, as old as time itself, does not show any signs of waning in this new touring production, a visual experience rich and dramatic enough to sate anyone’s sweet tooth for melodrama.
Despite its legendary popularity, Blood Brothers is not an intoxicatingly deep or immersive story. Most of the characters’ depths boil down to class tropes. This being the main focus of the story, most of the events that occur are very predictable with most of the real drama jammed into the last few scenes. The show does not boast an adventurous score, mainly reprising three songs throughout the performance.
The narrator is rarely actually employed to narrate the play, instead popping in to give reminders of the inevitability of the fateful ending rather than letting the tension build up naturally. That being said, Robbie Scotcher gives a strong performance as destiny manifested with a malevolent, formal attitude reminiscent of the Shakespearean chorus and a voice to match the rock-opera style numbers.
Blood Brothers is far from struggling for an audience and the new rendition is a strong one. The use of gorgeous, bold lighting full of rich purples and blues makes for a great visual experience. The set design is fantastic and allows for a great pace as the musical rolls between scenes whilst rarely skipping a beat.
Lyn Paul steals the show as the boys’ mother, carrying the majority of the musical numbers. Her voice is assured, controlled and expressive, imbued with greater character as the show runs on. The entire cast brings their all to every scene of the performance. Special kudos to this writer’s favourite performer, Graham Martin, who showed great comedic timing and versatility.
Blood Brothers piles atmosphere onto its audience so high you’ll wonder how they fit it all backstage. It’ll make you laugh and jump in your seat. It may be an Eastenders-eque melodrama at times but a fun one and this recent production brings that to life.
words Felix Jones
Blood Brothers is at the New Theatre until Sat 28 Sep. Tickets: from £15. Info: www.newtheatrecardiff.co.uk
