Blood Brothers - Magical At Sheffield Lyceum

Rating: 5/5

Willy Russell's 1983 Olivier Award winning musical 'Blood Brothers' has become a must-see of British Theatre. While it may have closed on the West End last year, the touring circuit still celebrates the tragi-comedy, which so tenderly and comically poses questions about the much-debated issue of nature vs. nurture.

Set in Russell's native Liverpool during the 1960s, the story centres on the separation of Marilyn Monroe obsessed Mrs Johnstone and her rapidly growing rabble - and an underhand deal with her employer, wealthy housewife Mrs Lyons to ensure the welfare of one of her youngest - one of Mrs Johnstone's new born twins. As Mrs Johnstone and Mrs Lyons raised their respective twins (Mickey and Edward) in the same city, their close proximity leads to constantly crossing paths and an inexplicable, uncontrollable friendship.

A wealth of actresses have been award nominated (and celebrated) for their portrayal of the steely spirited, working class heroine Mrs Johnstone. From Petula Clark to Melanie Chisholm, Carole King to Barbara Dickson - Russell's 'Blood Brothers' has proved itself the making of many an actress.

Former popstar Maureen Nolan has already more than proved her vocal dexterity through her work with The Nolans and acting ability through her numerous theatrical exploits, and she rises effortlessly to the challenges Mrs Johnstone presents. While her comedic timing is flawless, it is her raw and honest emotional that is deeply moving. Through the twists and turns, Nolan ensures her every move as Johnstone rings true, and her wrought performance of the climatic signature song 'Tell Me It's Not True' is tear-inducing, spine tingling stuff.

Unfortunately, former Wet Wet Wet frontman and acclaimed Musical Theatre performer Marti Pellow is the production's weak link. While there is no denying his smokey vocal still holds great appeal, his ever changing accent and poor annunciation render his delivery of the Narrator redundant. Rather than guide the audience, he simply confuses with his swallowed words.

Thankfully Pellow is surrounding by a sensational cast who more than make up for his shortfalls. Having had a long-running connection with the show, Sean Jones and Mark Hutchinson are unsurprisingly sensational as Mickey and Eddie. Without inhibition, the two grown men fully convince in their journey of adolesence and young adulthood. Though they are raised in such different worlds, their bond is undeniably unbreakable. Olivia Sloyan's Linda is equally compelling in her journey towards adulthood, while Paula Tappenden's downward spirallling Mrs Lyons is truly touching.

Overall 'Blood Brothers' does not suffer for its one casting shortfall. As the twisting road builds pace to the traumatic close, it is impossible not to be caught in the magical beauty of the musical masterpiece. As Nolan, Sloyan and Tappenden shred real tears, their efforts are met with an overwhelming standing ovation and no less than five curtain calls.

Blood Brothers runs at Sheffield Lyceum until Saturday 26th January 2013.