blood brothers tour 2024 manchester

Blood Brothers Tour

The Blood Brothers UK tour   will continue its tour into 2024!  More dates to be added… Sign up to our touring alerts and we will let you know when the show comes to your area. 

BLOOD BROTHERS UK TOUR 2024 DATES & TICKETS

Blood Brothers Tour LEICESTER Tue 23 Apr – Sat 27 Apr 2024 Blood Brothers Tour TUNBRIDGE WELLS Tue 16 Apr – Sat 20 Apr 2024 Blood Brothers Tour BATH Tue 09 Apr – Sat 13 Apr 2024 Blood Brothers Tour DARTFORD Tue 02 Apr – Sat 06 Apr 2024 Blood Brothers Tour BILLINGHAM Tue 26 Mar – Sat 30 Mar 2024 Blood Brothers Tour TORQUAY Tue 19 Mar – Sat 23 Mar 2024 Blood Brothers Tour KINGS LYNN Tue 12 Mar – Sat 16 Mar 2024 Blood Brothers Tour SOUTHAMPTON Tue 27 Feb – Sat 02 Mar 2024 Blood Brothers Tour SHREWSBURY Tue 13 Feb – Sat 17 Feb 2024 Blood Brothers Tour NEW BRIGHTON Tue 06 Feb – Sat 10 Feb 2024 Blood Brothers Tour NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE Tue 30 Jan – Sat 03 Feb 2024 Blood Brothers Tour MALVERN Tue 23 Jan – Sat 27 Jan 2024 Blood Brothers Tour WOKING Tue 16 Jan – Sat 20 Jan 2024 Blood Brothers Tour BRADFORD Tue 31 Oct – Sat 04 Nov 2023 Blood Brothers Tour SAFFRON WALDEN Tue 24 Oct – Sat 28 Oct 2023 Blood Brothers Tour BRIGHTON Tue 03 Oct – Sat 07 Oct 2023 Blood Brothers Tour GUILDFORD Tue 26 Sep – Sat 30 Sep 2023 Blood Brothers Tour IPSWICH Tue 19 Sep – Sat 23 Sep 2023 Blood Brothers Tour OXFORD Tue 12 Sep – Sat 16 Sep 2023 Blood Brothers Tour LICHFIELD Tue 05 Sep – Sat 09 Sep 2023 Blood Brothers Tour BRISTOL Tue 29 Aug – Sat 02 Sep 2023 Blood Brothers Tour CANTERBURY Tue 22 Aug – Sat 26 Aug 2023 Blood Brothers Tour CHELMSFORD Tue 15 Aug – Sat 19 Aug 2023 Blood Brothers Tour LLANDUDNO Tue 08 Aug – Sat 12 Aug 2023 Blood Brothers Tour CAMBRIDGE Tue 01 Aug – Sat 05 Aug 2023 Blood Brothers Tour EASTBOURNE Tue 25 Jul – Sat 29 Jul 2023 Blood Brothers Tour HULL Tue 18 Jul – Sat 22 Jul 2023 Blood Brothers Tour NOTTINGHAM Tue 11 Jul – Sat 15 Jul 2023 Blood Brothers Tour SWANSEA Tue 04 Jul – Sat 08 Jul 2023 Blood Brothers Tour NORWICH Tue 27 Jun – Sat 01 Jul 2023 Blood Brothers Tour CRAWLEY Tue 18 Apr – Sat 22 Apr 2023 Blood Brothers Tour CHELTENHAM Tue 11 Apr – Sat 15 Apr 2023 Blood Brothers Tour HASTINGS Tue 04 Apr – Sat 08 Apr 2023 Blood Brothers Tour COVENTRY Tue 28 Mar – Sat 01 Apr 2023 Blood Brothers Tour WELLINGBOROUGH Tue 21 Mar – Sat 25 Mar 2023 Blood Brothers Tour CREWE Tue 14 Mar – Sat 18 Mar 2023 Blood Brothers Tour SWINDON Tue 07 Mar – Sat 11 Mar 2023 Blood Brothers Tour BROMLEY Tue 28 Feb – Sat 04 Mar 2023 Blood Brothers Tour RICHMOND Tue 21 Feb – Sat 25 Feb 2023 Blood Brothers Tour DUBLIN Tue 07 Feb – Sat 18 Feb 2023 Blood Brothers Tour DERRY / LONDONDERRY Tue 31 Jan – Sat 04 Feb 2023 Blood Brothers Tour CHESTERFIELD Tue 24 Jan – Sat 28 Jan 2023 Blood Brothers Tour SOUTHEND-ON-SEA Tue 17 Jan – Sat 21 Jan 2023 Blood Brothers Tour POOLE Tue 22 Nov – Sat 26 Nov 2022 Blood Brothers Tour AYLESBURY Tue 15 Nov – Sat 19 Nov 2022 Blood Brothers Tour LIVERPOOL Tue 25 Oct – Sat 05 Nov 2022 Blood Brothers Tour SALFORD Tue 18 Oct – Sat 22 Oct 2022 Blood Brothers Tour STOKE-ON-TRENT Tue 27 Sep – Sat 01 Oct 2022 Blood Brothers Tour SUNDERLAND Tue 20 Sep – Sat 24 Sep 2022 Blood Brothers Tour MILTON KEYNES Tue 30 Aug – Sat 03 Sep 2022 Blood Brothers Tour TRURO Tue 26 Apr – Sat 30 Apr 2022 Blood Brothers Tour DERBY Tue 19 Apr – Sat 23 Apr 2022 Blood Brothers Tour YORK Tue 05 Apr – Sat 09 Apr 2022 Blood Brothers Tour PETERBOROUGH Tue 29 Mar – Sat 02 Apr 2022 Blood Brothers Tour HIGH WYCOMBE Tue 22 Mar – Sat 26 Mar 2022 Blood Brothers Tour BARNSTAPLE Tue 15 Mar – Sat 19 Mar 2022 Blood Brothers Tour WIMBLEDON Tue 08 Feb – Sat 12 Feb 2022 Blood Brothers Tour WINDSOR Fri 14 Jan – Sat 29 Jan 2022 Blood Brothers Tour PLYMOUTH Tue 17 Aug – Mon 23 Aug 2021

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Official Website: https://www.bloodbrothersmusical.com

WHAT IS BLOOD BROTHERS THE MUSICAL ABOUT?

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.

Few musicals have received quite such acclaim as the multi-award winning Blood Brothers . Bill Kenwright’s production surpassed 10,000 performances in London’s West End, one of only three musicals ever to achieve that milestone.

It has been affectionately christened the ‘Standing Ovation Musical’, as inevitably it “brings the audience cheering to its feet and roaring its approval” (The Daily Mail).

The superb score includes Bright New Day , Marilyn Monroe and the emotionally charged hit Tell Me It’s Not True .

BLOOD BROTHERS UK TOUR - CAST & CREATIVE

The Blood Brothers cast for the 2024 tour dates (up until Birmingham) is as follows:

• Niki Colwell Evans  – Mrs Johnstone
• Sean Jones  – Mickey
• Joe Sleight – Eddie
• Sarah Jane Buckley  – Mrs Lyons
• Timothy Lucas – Sammy
• Gemma Brodrick – Linda
• Tim Churchill – Mr Lyons
• Alex Harland  – Policeman/Teacher
• Jess Smith  – Brenda
• Chloe Pole  – Donna-Marie/Miss Jones
• Graeme Kinniburgh  – Bus Conductor/Postman
• Josh Capper  – Neighbour

Autumn 2024 Tour casting yet to be confirmed.

Book, Music & Lyrics by Willy Russell

Directed by Bob Tomson and Bill Kenwright

BLOOD BROTHERS TOUR TRAILER - WATCH THE VIDEO!

Listen to music from blood brothers.

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• Bournemouth
• Derry / Londonderry
• High Wycombe
• Kingston upon Thames
• Milton Keynes
• Newcastle Upon Tyne
• Northampton
• Peterborough
• Southampton
• Southend-on-Sea
• Stockton-on-Tees
• Stoke-on-Trent
• Wolverhampton

Oxford Street, Manchester, North West M1 6FT

Blood Brothers

November 19 - 30, 2024

It's as relevant as ever perhaps more than ever

Liverpool Echo

Why See Blood Brothers?

Musicals Domestic Relationships Classic

the uk favourite is on tour

Surpassing over 10,000 performances on London's West End (that's an incredible 24 years of shows), Willy Russell's Blood Brothers is safely one of the UK's favourite musicals. Now, courtesy of Bill Kenwright Limited, the legendary hit takes to the road this year on tour, bringing the emotional tale of two brothers torn asunder by fate to you. Including modern classics such as 'Tell Me It's Not True', 'Marylin Monroe' and 'Bright New Day' among many more, discover once more (or for the first time) the heartwrenching yet uplifting journey that is this special show.

What is the story?

When working-class kid Mickey meets the well to do Eddie, it's impossible to deny their resemblance. Little do they know, they're more than just similar looking, they're actually twins, separated at birth when their mother, struck a desperate deal with her wealthy employer. When the two discover the sons have connected, they work hard to tear them apart again. A boiling mixture of superstition and class difference, Blood Brothers is a searing exploration of the gap between poor and rich and the age-old nature vs nurture debate.

Additional Information

Opening night: 19 November 2024

Two hours and 45 minutes

You may be required to wear a mask during this performance. Please contact the venue directly for more information.

Cast and Creative

Niki Colwell Evans as Mrs Johnstone Danny Whitehead as the Narrator Sean Jones as Mickey Joe Sleight as Eddie Paula Tappenden as Mrs Lyons Tim Churchill as Mr Lyons Gemma Broderick as Linda Timothy Lucas as Sammy Tori Hargreaves as Donna Marie/Miss Jones Graeme Kinniburgh as Postman/Bus Conductor Josh Capper as the Neighbour Jess Smith as Brenda Connor Bannister as Perkins  Nick Wilkes as Policeman/Teacher

Written by Willy Russell Directed by Bob Tomson and Bill Kenwright Musical Direction by Scott Alder Sound Design by Dan Samson Set and Costume Design by Andy Walmsley Lighting Design by Nick Richings

What you thought

15 reviews, average rating: (4.8 Stars)

Judith Blatchford: “But to be missed”

This is one of the most original and outstanding musicals I have ever... more

Mike Sandford-West: “Brilliant!!!”

Thank you for a fabulous performance last night!! You all deserved that... more

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Blood Brothers - The Musical

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• West End & London Musicals
• Musicals on tour
• Edinburgh Festival Fringe 2024

Blood Brothers tour

Currently touring until 6 April 2024

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.

Blood Brothers tour dates and tickets

• Birmingham , Birmingham Hippodrome 30 April 2024 - 4 May 2024 Book tickets ➤
• Edinburgh , Edinburgh Playhouse 24 September 2024 - 28 September 2024 Book tickets ➤
• Glasgow , King's Theatre 15 October 2024 - 19 October 2024 Book tickets ➤

The iconic Blood Brothers presents a compelling and emotional story of twins separated at birth. They are raised in vastly different circumstances and reunite later in life, leading to a destiny filled with poignant outcomes.

The superb score includes Bright New Day, Marilyn Monroe and the emotionally charged hit Tell Me It’s Not True.

Meet the cast and creative team!

The new 2024 tour cast will see Niki Colwell Evans and Sean Jones continue to play the iconic roles of Mrs Johnstone and Mickey Johnstone respectively, with Gemma Broderick reprising her role of Linda, and Joe Sleight as Eddie.

Also returning to the cast for 2024 is Timothy Lucas (Sammy), Josh Capper (Neighbour), Sarah Jane Buckley (Mrs Lyons), Tim Churchill (Mr Lyons), Jess Smith (Brenda), Graeme Kinniburgh (Postman/Bus Conductor), Chloe Pole (Donna Marie), Alex Harland (Policeman / Teacher) and Danny Knott (Perkins).

The tour is directed by Bob Tomson & Bill Kenwright with musical direction by Matt Malone, sound design by Dan Samson, set and costume design by Andy Walmsley and lighting design by Nick Richings.

About the show

Age recommendation and guidance: 12+ No Under 5s allowed in venue. Under 16s must be accompanied at all times by an adult (18+)

Running time: 2 hours 50 minutes incl. interval

More Musicals On Tour

I Should Be So Lucky

Jesus Christ Superstar

Pretty Woman

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Blood Brothers

Tuesday 26th nov 2024.

location_city Palace Theatre , Manchester

Willy Russell's Blood Brothers is the story of twins, separated at birth, who are reunited when competing for the affections of the same woman, Mrs Johnstone.

Written and first performed in the early 1980s, Blood Brothers first toured the UK in 1996.

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Blood Brothers announces 2024 casting and tour stops

The much-loved musical is back

Willy Russell’s hit musical Blood Brothers will return for a new tour in 2024, with initial casting confirmed.

Produced by Bill Kenwright Limited (one of four productions the company is taking on the open road early next year), the piece will open at New Victoria Theatre, Woking from 16 January 2024, before visiting Malvern, New Brighton, Shrewsbury, Southampton, Kings Lynn, Torquay, Billingham, Bath, Leicester and Birmingham.

Niki Colwell Evans and Sean Jones will continue to play the roles of Mrs Johnstone and Mickey Johnstone respectively, with Gemma Brodrick reprising her role of Linda, and Joe Sleight as Eddie.

Also returning to the cast for 2024 is Timothy Lucas (Sammy), Josh Capper (Neighbour), Sarah Jane Buckley (Mrs Lyons), Tim Churchill (Mr Lyons), Jess Smith (Brenda), Graeme Kinniburgh (Postman/Bus Conductor), Chloe Pole (Donna Marie) and Alex Harland (Policeman / Teacher) with further casting to be announced.

The production was directed by Bob Tomson and Kenwright, while the resident director is Tim Churchill. The piece has design by Andy Walmsley, lighting design by Nick Richings, sound design by Dan Samson and musical direction by Matt Malone.

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Blood Brothers at Palace Theatre

Blood Brothers Palace Theatre 15th February 2022 – 26th February 2022

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Few musicals have received such acclaim as the multi-award-winning Blood Brothers. Bill Kenwright’s production surpassed 10,000 performances in London’s West End, one of only three musicals ever to achieve that milestone. It has been affectionately christened the ‘Standing Ovation Musical’, as inevitably it “brings the audience cheering to its feet and roaring its approval”

The superb score includes Bright New Day, Marilyn Monroe and the emotionally charged hit Tell Me It’s Not True.

A classic musical that everyone should see, take the opportunity to catch it at  The Palace Theatre this February.

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Blood brothers uk tour.

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.

Few musicals have received quite such acclaim as the multi-award winning  Blood Brothers . Bill Kenwright Ltd’s production played for more than 10,000 performances in London’s West End, one of only three musicals ever to achieve that milestone. It has been affectionately christened the ‘Standing Ovation Musical’, as inevitably it “brings the audience cheering to its feet and roaring its approval” (The Daily Mail).

The superb score includes  Bright New Day ,  Marilyn Monroe  and the emotionally charged hit  Tell Me It’s Not True .

CAST - SPRING 2024

NIKI COLWELL EVANS

Mrs Johnstone

SCOTT ANSON

JOE SLEIGHT

SARAH JANE BUCKLEY

GEMMA BRODRICK

TIMOTHY LUCAS

TIM CHURCHILL

ALEX HARLAND

CHLOE POLE 

Donna Marie/Miss Jones

GRAEME KINNIBURGH

Postman/ Bus Conductor

DANNY KNOTT

JOSH CAPPER

Casting for the Summer Autumn 2024 tour will be confirmed in due course. 

CREATIVE TEAM

WILLY RUSSELL

Directed by

BOB TOMSON & BILL KENWRIGHT 

Resident Director

Music Supervisor

MATT MALONE

ANDY WALMSLEY

Lighting design by

NICK RICHINGS

Sound design by

‘DAZZLING’

SUNDAY TELEGRAPH

‘EXHILARATING…ONE OF THE BEST MUSICALS EVER WRITTEN’

SUNDAY TIMES

‘BRINGS THE AUDIENCE CHEERING TO ITS FEET AND ROARING APPROVAL’

THE DAILY MAIL

‘ THE SHOW BELONGS AMONG THE GREATS OF B RITISH MUSICAL THEATRE ’.

THE TELEGRAPH

★★★★★ ‘TERRIFIC’

SUNDAY EXPRESS

‘A TRIUMPHANT EVENING… UNMISSABLE AND UNBEATABLE’

THE SPECTATOR

2 – 6 Apr

DARTFORD Orchard West Theatre

9 – 13 Apr

BATH Theatre Royal

16 – 20 Apr

TUNBRIDGE WELLS Assembly Hall Theatre

23 – 27 Apr

LEICESTER Curve Theatre

30 Apr – 4 May

BIRMINGHAM Birmingham Hippodrome

Summer/Autumn Tour 2024

20 – 24 Aug

CARDIFF Wales Millenium Centre

28 – 31 Aug

RHYL Pavillion Theatre

3 – 7 Sep

BLACKPOOL Opera House

10 – 14 Sep

SKEGNESS Embassy Theatre

17 – 21 Sep

WESTON SUPER-MARE The Playhouse Theatre

24 – 28 Sep

EDINBURGH Edinburgh Playhouse

1 – 5 Oct

ABERDEEN His Majesty’s Theatre

8 – 12 Oct

INVERNESS Eden Court

15 – 19 Oct

GLASGOW King’s Theatre

22 – 26 Oct

NEWARK Palace Theatre

5 – 9 Nov

PORTSMOUTH King’s Theatre

12 – 16 Nov

DARLINGTON Darlington Hippodrome

19 – 30 Nov

MANCHESTER Palace Theatre

3 – 7 Dec

LEEDS Grand Theatre

Past 2024 tour dates

26 – 30 Mar

BILLINGHAM Forum Theatre

19 – 23 Mar

TORQUAY Princess Theatre

12 – 16 Mar

KING’S LYNN Corn Exchange Theatre

27 Feb – 2 Mar

SOUTHAMPTON Mayflower Theatre

13 – 17 Feb

SHREWSBURY Theatre Severn

6 – 10 Feb

NEW BRIGHTON Floral Pavillion Theatre

30 Jan – 3 Feb

NEWCASTLE Theatre Royal

23 – 27 Jan

MALVERN Festival Theatre

16 – 20 Jan

WOKING New Victoria Theatre

• Blood Brothers
• Written by: Willy Russell

Willy Russell's moving tale about two brothers whose lives are worlds apart.

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.

Few musicals have received quite such acclaim as the multi-award winning Blood Brothers . Bill Kenwright's production surpassed 10,000 performances in London's West End, one of only three musicals ever to achieve that milestone.

The superb score includes Bright New Day, Marilyn Monroe and the emotionally charged hit Tell Me It’s Not True.

Text supplied by third party.

Tour dates 2024

At 6 venues:

Darlington Hippodrome

The edinburgh playhouse, his majesty's theatre, aberdeen, king's theatre, glasgow, opera house & winter gardens, blackpool, palace theatre, manchester.

£18–£47 / 01325 405405

£13–£106.50 / 0844 871 3014

01224 641122

£13–£104.50 / 0333 009 6690

£23.75–£54 / 0844 856 1111

£15–£89.50 / 0844 847 2275

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Arts, theatre, gigs: Manchester's cultural calendar for 2022

An all-encompassing list of Manchester's coolest cultural things to do in 2022

Manchester is constantly buzzing with a whole load of cultural things to do and see with everything from drag acts to daily craft workshops, but trawling through the masses of Facebook events, city-centre billboards, and gallery newsletters can be an absolute ball-ache. 

To make your oh-so-cultured lifestyle that little bit easier, we've created a cultural calendar for 2022 that's packed with shows, exhibitions and the odd alternative-pop gig. 

This page will be continuously updated as new events are released throughout the year, so add it to your bookmarks and pencil in some time with the arts. 

Here's your month by month list of what's on in the world of cultural events in 2022:

The Tragedy of Macbeth | HOME | daily showings

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Van Gogh Alive | MediaCity | 22 October 2021 – 27 February 

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Derek Jarman Protest! | Manchester Art Gallery | 2 December 2021–10 April 2022

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Out of the Crate | Manchester Art Gallery | 7 November 2019 - 11 December 2022

A behind-the-scenes look at Manchester's publicly owned sculpture collection that delves into the history and origins of the collection and its highlights. 

School of Rock | Palace Theatre | 4 January – 15 January

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s rockin’ adaptation of the iconic 2003 musical film starring Jack Black. Black does not appear in the theatre version. Tickets from £13.00

SIX  | The Quays Theatre | 5 January – 9 January

A modern musical tale of Henry VIII’s six wives and their journey from heartbreak to 21st century girl power.

The Strange Undoing of Prudencia Hart  | Royal Exchange Theatre | 4 December – 15 January

A December folktale fave that’s running right up until the middle of the month.

Avatar | O2 Ritz | 9 January

Swedish heavy metal band Avatar grace the Ritz with their latest releases and previous top hits. Standing tickets are £25.45 and doors open at 7pm.

Nigel Kneale: Into the Unknown | HOME |9 January

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Chat Back | Oldham Coliseum | 13 January - 14 January

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Young Love | Oldham Coliseum | 13 January - 14 January 

Each of the teenage characters questions "what is love?" as they explore their ideas of love in the modern age.

Haiku Salut: BFI Archive Short Films Live Score | HOME | 16 January 

Instrumental artists Haiku Salut present the international premiere of two live scores to accompany a couple of silent short films from the BFI Archives.

The Rocky Horror Show  | Palace Theatre | 17 January – 22 January

Get ready to do the time warp again at the Palace Theatre this January.  

Moscow City Ballet presents Swan Lake  | Manchester Opera House | 20 January – 21 January

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Moscow City Ballet presents The Nutcracker  | Manchester Opera House | 22 January

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A Knight to Remember | Oldham Coliseum | 22 January

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Keep the Change with live Q&A | HOME | 23 January

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Saturday Night Fever  | Manchester Opera House | 25 January – 29 January

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The Door Opened - 1980s China | Manchester Central Library | 26 January 

An intimate look at photographer Adrian Bradshaw as he shares his memories of capturing everyday life in 1980s China.

‘Free fall’ poetry for wellbeing |HOME| 28 January

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Art Battle Manchester | Escape to Freight Island | 28 January

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The greatest hits of Motown: how sweet it is | Oldham Coliseum | 28 January - 29 January

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Creative Sparks Mixer  | HOME | 30 January

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Turn on fest: scratch night in partnership with Hive North  | Hope Mill Theatre | 30 January

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Season launch for Spring/Summer 2022 | Oldham Coliseum | 31 January

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An Adventure | The Octagon | 4 February - 26 February 

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Notflix: the improvised musical | Oldham Coliseum | 5 February

A show completely inspired by audience suggestions with an all-female cast. Creating movies and re-inventing your favourite films with "100% more singing, 99% more women and live music". 

Craft Social: Book Binding | Salford Museum and Art Gallery | 9 February

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Pinocchio | Oldham Coliseum | 10 February

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The Official RuPaul’s Drag Race UK Series Two Tour | Manchester Opera House | 12 February

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Doing Shakespeare | Sale Waterside | 15 February

Six actors performing six different Shakespeare plays to create a mash-up like no other. Guaranteed to have you "rolling in the aisles and the Bard turning in his grave".

Blood Brothers | Palace Theatre | 15 February – 26 February

Christened the “standing ovation musical”, this emotional tale of twins separated at birth needs to be added to your things to-do list ASAP. 

The Man Who Thought He Knew Too Much | Sale Waterside | 17 February 

A funny and inventive show that's "Chaplin meets Hitchcock meets Spaghetti Western" in a fast-paced whodunnit set in 1950's New York. 

Jonathan Van Ness - Imaginary Living Room Olympian | Manchester Opera House | 20 February

Emmy-nominated TV personality and Queer Eye star Jonathan Van Ness is on tour with a show full of gymnastics, tales of life as “a nonbinary bitch”, and a whole load of laughs.

You Choose | Sale Waterside | 20 February

Based on the unique picture book by Pippa Goodhart and Nick Sharratt, this is a show where YOU CHOOSE what happens through a series of games and challenges with different characters, costumes and locations every time. 

Fatal Attraction | Manchester Opera House | 22 February – 26 February

On-stage adaptation of the movie thriller classic starring Corrie’s Kym Marsh. 

Dave | AO Arena | 24 February

Part of rapper Dave’s UK arena tour following the 2021 release of his second album We’re All Alone In This Together . 

Discovery Showcase | Oldham Coliseum | 25 February

Four script-in-hand performances of original plays by newly discovered female writers of South Asian descent. Written and developed as part of the DISCOVERY programme with Kali Theatre. 

Footloose | Manchester Opera House | 28 February – 5 March

Hot off the West-End stage, Footloose is heading up North with stars Jake Quickenden and Darren Day taking the lead in this cult dance classic.

9 to 5 the Musical | Palace Theatre | 1 March – 5 March

Tumble outta bed and stumble to the Palace to see the likes of Claire Sweeney and revel in a score written by the queen of country herself (that’s Dolly Parton, btw).

My Favourite Place in the Whole Wide World | Hope Mill Theatre | 1 March - 6 March

A brand-new play by Ian Townsend that details the journey of two people in search of love and purpose in a world of confusion and loss - "an engaging and heartfelt play about growing up".

Nora: A Doll’s House | Royal Exchange Theatre | 4 March – 2 April

Set across three pivotal decades, three remarkable women starkly portray female married life. Described as “a battle cry, a roar, a ripple of hope”.

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time | Manchester Opera House | 8 March – 12 March

Winner of both an Olivier Award and a Tony, this “beautiful and dazzlingly inventive show about the wonders of life” is running throughout the second week of March.

Saving Britney  | Hope Mill Theatre | 8 March - 10 March

A "hilarious and heartbreaking look at celebrity obsession, sex and growing up in the early noughties" inspired by the #FreeBritney movement. 

Rigoletto | The Lowry | 9 March

Leading UK theatre artist, Femi Elufowoju Jr. directs a new production of the classic opera that maps identity and inequality onto a contemporary canvas. A great watch for opera lovers or first-timers. 

Carmen |The Lowry | 10 March

A remake of the classic 150-year-old opera with themes of femininity, desire, violence and toxic masculinity that "resonate now more than ever".

KES | The Octagon | 10 March - 2 April

A powerful on-stage retelling of the classic novel by Barry Hines that captures the delicate tensions of youth and adolescence in 1960s working-class Yorkshire. 

The Shadow | Oldham Coliseum | 10 March

Six central characters and their "shadow counterparts" are whisked away into different stories and places to reveal their hidden personalities, desires and motivations. Choreographed by Beauty and the Beast 's Anthony Missen.  

The Glee Club | Oldham Coliseum | 15 March - 19 March

A glee club consisting of "five hard-working, hard-drinking miners and a church organist" is preparing for the local gala. A show that is guaranteed to make you giggle. 

The Dan Daw Show | HOME | 17 March – 19 March

“A peep into the shiny and sweaty push-pull of living with shame while bursting with pride” from Dan Daw and Christopher Owen.

Stereophonics | AO Arena | 18 March

Back with a new album and a massive Manchester tour date.

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat | Manchester Opera House | 21 March – 2 April

A star-studded version of this Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber classic starring Alexandra Burke, Jason Donovan and Jac Yarrow is en route to the Opera House in all of its glorious technicolour.

The Ballad of Maria Marten | Oldham Coliseum | 22 March - 26 March

"A thrilling retelling of a real-life murder mystery" set in 1827. Described as a "vital, layered and empowered" piece of theatre and one for the diary. 

Hans Zimmer Live | AO Arena | 24 March

A compilation of the award-winning film composer’s best-loved scores and soundtracks.

Planet Earth II – Live in Concert | AO Arena | 25 March

BBC Studios and FKP Scorpio UK bring David Attenborough’s much-loved documentary to life with a live orchestra.

Vagina Cake | Hope Mill Theatre | 29 March - 2 April 

A coming of age comedy-drama focusing on five friends "who just can't give each other up".  

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast | Palace Theatre | 31 March – 4 June

A beloved tale as old as time brought to life on stage by members of the original creative team, what a beauty.

Jeff Wayne’s Musical Version of The War of The Worlds | AO Arena | 1 April

A musical re-telling of the classic H.G Wells science-fiction novel.

Royal Blood | AO Arena | 2 April

English rock duo Mike Kerr and Ben Thatcher return to Manchester on their 2022 UK tour.

Johannes Radebe – Freedom | Manchester Opera House | 6 April

This Strictly star and international dance champion is celebrating dance in all its forms at the Opera House this April.

The Jungle Book | Oldham Coliseum | 7 April - 24 April

If you're looking for this cultural calendar's  Bare Necessities , then a trip to the Coliseum to see Mowgli and his jungle pals should definitely be on your agenda. 

The Official RuPaul’s Drag Race UK Series Two Tour | Manchester Opera House | 17 April

An evening full of Charisma, Uniqueness, Nerve and Talent from all your favourite season 2 drag icons.

The Addams Family | Manchester Opera House | 19 April – 23 April

Join your favourite kooky fam for “a heart-warming story of love, family and friendship…with a twist”.

National Theatre Live: Henry V | HOME | 21 April

Game of Thrones ’ Kit Harrington plays the titular role in this classic Shakespeare tale of nationalism and war captured from the Donmar Warehouse in London.

Habibti Driver | The Octagon | 21 April - 7 May

Enjoy this hilarious tale of family dynamics and religious traditions based on co-writer Shamia Chalabi's real-life experiences. A heartwarming play that "will make you laugh and cry" as it explores the clashes and compromises that come with living in a modern mixed-race British family. 

Electric Rosary | Royal Exchange Theatre | 23 April – 14 May

A “sharp, timely and gloriously funny” new play that brings nuns and robots together like never before.

Blondie – Against The Odds’ UK Tour  | AO Arena | 1 May

Re-scheduled for 2022 with new support from Johnny Marr.

Trixie Mattel  | Manchester Opera House | 4 May

This American all-singing all-dancing drag wonder is in Manchester for one night and one night only.

Passion | Hope Mill Theatre | 5 May - 5 June

Starring Olivier Award winner Ruthie Henshall, this re-imagining of Passion  is set in 19th century Italy and sets out to explore "the consequences of intense passion and obsessive adoration". 

Singin’ In The Rain  | Manchester Opera House | 9 May – 14 May

Sadly there’s no Gene Kelly in sight, but there is a 5 night stint at the Opera House that’ll transport you back to the glamour of roaring 20’s Hollywood.

British Art Show 9 | The Whitworth | 13 May - 4 September

The ninth edition of the biggest touring exhibition of contemporary art in the UK. Curated by Irene Aristizabal and Hammad Nasar. 

The White Card  | HOME | 18 May – 21 May

UK premiere of Claudia Rankine’s first play that questions whether society can progress when whiteness remains invisible. Written during the 2019 Black Lives Matter protests.

RuPaul’s Drag Race: Werq the World Tour  | AO Arena | 19 May

An all-new international tour with all your fave Ru Paul icons, werq it Manchester.

Chicago  | Manchester Opera House | 23 May – 28 May

It’s got West End stars, razzle-dazzle, a legendary choreographer, and all that jazz.

One Man, Two Guvnors | The Octagon | 26 May - 25 June

A smash-hit comedy described as "a hilarious mix of slapstick, farce and live music" that is "side-splittingly funny". 

Red Velvet | Royal Exchange Theatre | 27 May – 25 June

A powerful play exploring the social and political repercussions of Ira Alridge’s infamous role as Desdemona in the Theatre Royal’s 1833 run of Othello.  

Celine Dion Courage World Tour  | AO Arena | 5 June – 6 June

One of the world’s biggest divas is in Manchester for two whole nights of riffs and ballads galore.

Billie Eilish  | AO Arena |7 June – 8 June

Ahead of the release of her forthcoming album Happier Than Ever , Billie Eilish is bringing her iconic tones to the AO Arena for two nights in June.

Elvis Costello & The Imposters  | Manchester Opera House | 11 June

Sing along to brand new album The Boy Named If and a load of other Costello classics.

Alanis Morissette | AO Arena | 25 June

You Oughta Know that Alanis is here for one night only with all of her alternative post-grunge hits and iconic vocals.

Sister Act  | Palace Theatre | 27 June – 9 July

A “sparkling tribute to the universal power of friendship, sisterhood and music” featuring an award-winning soundtrack and plenty of nostalgic throwbacks. 

Aerosmith: European Tour 2022 | AO Arena | 28 June

You Don’t Want to Miss a Thing from the AO Arena at the end of June.

Vice Versa  | HOME | 1 July – 2 July

A one-woman performance-art meets theatre production that explores the journey from being a passive civilian to a totalitarian.

Kings of Leon | AO Arena | 5 July 

Everyone's favourite American rock quartet are back with a world tour full of their best bits. 

25 Years of Lord Of The Dance  | Palace Theatre | 14 July – 17 July

Three whole nights of Michael Flatley’s magic footwork – timeless.

South Pacific | Manchester Opera House | 16 July – 23 July

A highlight of the Opera House’s 2022 schedule is this tale of powerful love and romance in the height of World War II.

The Osmonds – A New Musical | Palace Theatre | 9 August – 13 August

A tale of Donny and his bros directed by Shaun Kerrison and choreographed by Olivier Award winner Bill Deamer. 

Mrs Doubtfire  | Manchester Opera House | 2 September – 1 October

A massive dose of nostalgic musical comedy that we all need in our lives.

The Glass Menagerie | Royal Exchange Theatre | 2 September – 8 October

A Tennessee Williams classic directed by Atri Banerjee and adapted for the Exchange’s in-the-round theatre. A play that explores “the complex web of love, loyalty and trauma that binds families together”. 

We Will Rock You | Palace Theatre | 5 September – 10 September

The smash-hit brainchild of Queen and Ben Elton is back in Manchester for a five day stint at the Palace. 

Dreamgirls | Palace Theatre | 13 September – 24 September

And I Am Telling You , these “spine-tingling” vocals are well worth copping a ticket for as sisters Effie, Lorrell and Deena embark on a journey to fame and fortune via some timeless ballads.

Tommy Alexander | The Castle Hotel | 30 September

Alt-Country artist Tommy Alexander brings some sweet sounds to The Castle Hotel on Friday 30 September. General admission £11, doors open at 7:30pm.

The Official RuPaul’s Drag Race UK Series Three Tour  | Manchester Opera House | 4 October – 5 October

Sashay away to the Opera House for a whole host of season three queens including Ella Vaday and Kitty Scott-Claus.

Beautiful  | Palace Theatre | 11 October – 15 October

An inspiring musical tale of Carole King’s journey to stardom that “sends shivers down the spine”.

Jersey Boys  | Manchester Opera House | 18 October – 29 October

The smash-hit musical re-telling of the story behind Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons includes bangers such as  Working My Way, Back To You  and  Oh What A Night.

Let the right one in | Royal Exchange Theatre| 22 October – 19 November

Bringing some extra-spooky vibes for Halloween month, Let The Right One In is an unnerving coming of age tale based on the haunting Swedish novel by Jon Ajvide Lindqvist.

The Lion King | Palace Theatre | 27 October – 24 December

It's back in all of its goosebump-inducing glory with your favourite characters and catchy.

Robin Hood | Oldham Coliseum | 12 November - 7 January

The return of the Oldham Coliseum infamous annual pantomime comes in the form of Robin Hood for 2022. Get ready for some men in tights and pun-filled magic. 

What’s Love Got To Do With It – A Tribute to Tina Turner | Manchester Opera House | 14 November

Surely you don’t want to miss out on simply the best Tina Turner tribute show in the UK?

Betty! A Sort of Musical | Royal Exchange Theatre | 3 December – 14 January

Starring icon Maxine Peake this highly-anticipated show is “a heart-warming celebration of the human spirit and the unexpected rewards that can come from thinking outside of the dispatch box”.

The Pantomime Adventures of Peter Pan | Manchester Opera House | 10 December – 31 December

A swashbuckling tale of the boy who never grew up. Take a trip to Neverland in December 2022.

Play reading club | Hope Mill Theatre | 17 December

Led by Janelle Thompson, this sessions read-through will revolve around  The Audition  by Don Zolidis as everyone is welcome to join from 11am - 1pm at Hope Mill Theatre. No prior experience needed. 

Read next:  The Hot 50: the most popular restaurants in Manchester

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• In this Story
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Things to do in Manchester this May

Guernsey - great culture, food and an abundance of views, confidential safari #1: paintings, plants, portraits and parties, hotspur press to host brick clad 36-storey tower, most popular, ‘a true cumbrian jewel’: forest side, grasmere, the world of hans zimmer: a new dimension, manchester ao arena, reviewed, what’s on this easter: nights out and days out with friends, what’s on this easter for families, things to do in manchester this april.

Want to know what's on in Manchester? Here's a list of things to do next...

‘A foodie must go’: a stay at L’Enclume in Cartmel

Harley Young enjoys a Michelin star stay in the picturesque Cumbrian village

Launch night: The Mezz at AO Arena

Gordo visits AO Arena’s new and exclusive members-only restaurant and bar

Seven of the best European music festivals to visit this year

Harley Young shares a handful of the best music festivals from across the continent

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Spotlighting theatre in london and the south east, blood brothers | the assembly hall theatre, tunbridge wells | review.

I hold my hand up, Blood Brothers is a show that I have seen on numerous occasions in the West End over the last 20 years and I was very disappointed when it closed in 2012. So you could imagine my delight when the new UK tour produced by Bill Kenwright came to the Assembly Halls in Tunbridge Wells this week.

Written by celebrated playwright Willy Russell , Blood Brothers tells the story of twins separated at birth, growing up in very different circumstances without knowledge of one another . When they meet they become firm friends. However the inevitable happens, life takes it toll and unfortunately the story ends with tragic circumstances, and trust me no matter how many times you’ve seen it, you are always shocked.

The beauty of Blood Brothers is that the story is seen through the eyes of the boys’ birth mother Mrs Johnstone who in this production is played by Maureen Nolan . She gave just the right amount of maternal warmth to the role. The Narrator, Marti Pellow ( Evita ) was harder to warm to, I wasn’t sure whether he was trying too hard to master the strong Liverpudlian accent or there was too much amplification but unfortunately often his words weren’t clear. Interview with Marti Pellow here

On the other hand the boys Mickey and Eddie played by Sean Jones and Joel Benedict respectively along with Danielle Corlass playing Linda was first rate. As they progress from seven year olds, through their teenage years and ultimately to become adults, their friendship blossoms. During the second act when things get more serious they surpass themselves and I felt a real sympathy towards the desperate Mickey.

The rest of the cast play a myriad of other characters with energy, gusto and a fair amount of spitting.

The score of Blood Brothers lends some of the best music that Musical Theatre can offer. From the lovely yet sad ‘ Marilyn Monroe’ , to the Superstitious ‘ Shoes upon the Table’ to the childish ‘Kids’ Game’ , I haven’t stopped singing the songs since I came out. Above all Nolan’s rendition of the iconic song ‘Tell me it’s not true’ was absolutely faultless and if anything persuaded the entire audience to spring to their feet at the end it was that.

The show does work exceedingly well as a tour. I do believe that there is something in Blood Brothers for everyone to relate to. It is not a tale of doom and gloom, there are a lot of light moments but is ultimately a story abut family, friendship and love marred by class and superstition. It was fantastic seeing the show again and I wish it all the best on the rest of it’s tour.

If I had one tinsey niggle, it was the programme, some cracking pictures of the casts from previous productions but if you would like to find information about the production and the uber-talented cast that you are seeing, I recommend you visit the website beforehand and hope it is up to date.

 Blood Brothers Website

So – from the Website:-

Narrator – Marti Pellow Mrs Johnstone – Maureen Nolan Mickey – Sean Jones Eddie – Joel Benedict Linda – Danielle Corlass Mrs Lyons – Kate Jarman Mr Lyons – Tim Churchill Sammy – Danny Taylor Policeman/Teacher – Graham Martin Donna Marie/Miss Jones – Laura Harrison Perkins – Joe Sleight Neighbour – Ryan-Lee Seager Brenda – Lois Molloy Bus Conductor – Graeme Kinniburgh

2 – 7 Feb Inverness, Eden Court 01463 234 234 Book online 16 – 21 Feb Hamilton The Town House 01698 452299 Book online 23 – 28 Feb Aylesbury Waterside Theatre 0844 871 7607 Book online 2 – 14 Mar Manchester Palace Theatre 0844 871 3019 Book online 16 – 21 Mar King’s Lynn Corn Exchange 01553 764864 Book online 23 – 28 Mar Hastings White Rock Theatre 01424 462 288 Book online 30 Mar – 4 Apr Croydon Fairfield Halls 020 8688 9291 Book online 7 – 11 Apr Cornwall Hall for Cornwall 01872 262466 Book online 13 – 18 Apr Cheltenham Everyman Theatre 01242 572573 Book online 20 – 25 Apr Shrewsbury Theatre Severn 01743 281281 Book online 27 Apr – 2 May Rhyl Pavilion Theatre 01745 33 00 00

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Moscow Tours & Travel Packages 2024/2025

Our 60 most popular moscow trips. compare tour itineraries from 45 tour companies. 308 reviews. 4.7/5 avg rating., popular moscow tours.

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Show all results, blood brothers in edinburgh.

Blood Brothers at the Edinburgh Playhouse, Edinburgh

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Blood Brothers

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 . Few musicals have received quite such acclaim as the multi-award winning BLOOD BROTHERS .

Bill Kenwright ’s production surpassed 10,000 performances in London’s West End, one of only three musicals ever to achieve that milestone. It has been affectionately christened the ‘Standing Ovation Musical’, as inevitably it “brings the audience cheering to its feet and roaring its approval” (The Daily Mail).

The superb score includes Bright New Day , Marilyn Monroe and the emotionally charged hit Tell Me It’s Not True .

Please note: production images feature a previous cast. Age guidance: - 12+ No Under 5s allowed in venue. Under 16s must be accompanied at all times by an adult (18+)

Blood Brothers Tickets

Edinburgh playhouse, tue 24 sep 2024 - sat 28 sep 2024, blood brothers buy, tue 24 sep - 19:30, edinburgh playhouse, edinburgh £13, wed 25 sep - 14:30, wed 25 sep - 19:30, thu 26 sep - 14:30, thu 26 sep - 19:30, fri 27 sep - 19:30, sat 28 sep - 14:30, sat 28 sep - 19:30, blood brothers on tour.

Tue 3 - Sat 7 Sep Blackpool Buy tickets

Tue 24 - Sat 28 Sep Edinburgh Buy tickets

Tue 15 - Sat 19 Oct Glasgow Buy tickets

Tue 19 - Sat 30 Nov Manchester Buy tickets

Our review on Blood Brothers

Blood brothers - the lowry, salford - tuesday 18th october 2022 by karen ryder, no matter what your blood type, donate to the cause and watch blood brothers - it's incredible.

It isn’t even a year since Blood Brothers was last in Manchester, breaking hearts and entertaining audiences all at the same time.  Yet I find that everyone I speak to has rebooked to go and watch it again, this time in Salford, because they simply cannot get enough of this deeply moving story with its heartfelt music, funny bones, and Northern humour.  So, I’ve asked before and I’ll ask again;

“Did you ever hear the story of the Johnstone twins?”

It seems everyone has a personal connection or story to share regarding Blood Brothers , whether they’ve read it at school like the many school groups in tonight, know the music, know parts of the script, or have gone to watch it for the star turn who happened to be performing.  People will recall and share with delight the first time they saw it and how they are still moved by it now.  So why all the fuss?  Because this is one of the most popular and accessible musicals out there.  People who proclaim they hate musical theatre will happily sell their own kidney to get a ticket to see this show (well, ok, maybe not – but you get what I mean.  NB – Other organs are available!)  It is a musical that represents different walks of life, allows us to engage in the same story but from different characters viewpoints and different ages, and shows us just how fragile life can be depending on the choices we make.  It has humanity at its very core, exploring class division, love, life, friendship, and family.

Blood Brothers takes place in 1960’s Liverpool.  Life is tough, jobs are scarce, and community is everything.  When Mrs. Johnstone falls pregnant again, and her husband leaves her for a Marilyn Monroe lookalike, she knows that she simply cannot make ends meet.  As she is cleaning for wealthy homeowner Mrs. Lyons, she listens to her grief at not being able to have children.  The answer seems obvious when you are desperate.  Mrs. Johnstone has too many children to feed, Mrs. Lyons has none.  In a contemporary tale of nature versus nurture, we watch as twin brothers Mickey and Eddie are separated at birth, one brought up with wealth, the other without.  When they meet as children, an instant bond is formed, though they have little idea of who they truly are to each other.  Sealing their friendship with a blood pact, they become blood brothers and set in motion a series of events that intertwines their lives forever.  As Mrs. Johnstone discovers who Mickey’s new friend really is, she is torn between keeping them apart and welcoming her long lost son with open arms.  But Mrs. Lyons has no such issue and does everything she can to destroy any chance of the happiness they may bring each other.  Guilt, anger, loss, and love form a dangerous cocktail of emotions and one bad choice, or one bad lie can set you on a path of self-destruction.  We watch helplessly as Mickey is ground down into a deep depression, whilst Eddie seems to thrive.  Does fate rule our lives, or are we the epitome of our own choices?  The young Mickey and Eddie that we meet, so full of life and joy, have no idea that their past will determine their future and end in tragedy.  It is heart-breaking.

The show dramatically opens drenched in red light, symbolic of the blood pact, the blood spilt, and the looming danger.  Echoes of the songs to come whisper and crescendo throughout the theatre, building momentum via a spine tingling orchestra.  Electric drums match your own heartbeat as the actors solemnly make their way on stage to ‘begin at the end’.  We are forewarned that this show will end in tragedy, but it does nothing to ease its impact when it occurs.  Mickey and Eddie are lain out, respectfully covered by a sheet, whilst Mrs. Johnstone and the Narrator guide us through the opening of the show, setting the scene of her circumstances and edging ever closer to the moment that seven-year-old Mickey bursts onto the stage playing Cowboys and Indians.  This sudden gear change gives you a false sense of security that the show won’t really go there.  Surely it can’t take away this young boy fizzing with imagination, energy and the pure innocence of youth?  Surely it can’t allow anything bad to happen to these children?  But they are not children when it happens and the fact that we see their story from them being youngsters is an interesting psychological insight into why is breaks you so much.  If we had merely picked the story up from Mickey and Eddie being adults, would we feel as distraught?  Would we offer judgement instead of empathy?  Would we blame them instead of routing for them?

There is so much to love about Blood Brothers that it’s hard to pick out best bits, because that implies that there are bits that aren’t as good, and every second of this musical has been cleverly planned out so that none of it is wasted, secondary, or worthy of being called anything less than a best bit.  There are moments which always seem to stick in my mind though, moments of detail, such as Mickey hiding under his oversized and over stretched sweater vest, crying at the cruelty of his older brother humiliating him in front of their friends.  A washing line strung across the stage with several baby grows to represent Mrs. Johnstone’s expanding family, or Mickey feeding his pretend horse to make sure he doesn’t go hungry before he is dragged by his ear for a telling off.  Hilarious and unexpected one liners delivered by Mickey and Eddie as children, key moments of letting the audience in on the joke such as when the milkman doubles up to play the doctor and references this fact with a joke, and the energy provided in numbers such as ‘ Kids Game’ that all ages can relate to as we follow the bizarre but serious rules that kids make up for their street games, and the eerie parallels that seem to have followed through into our adult lives.  The ‘Our Sammy’ monologue, which was performed superbly, and again drew the audience in as Mickey came and sat right on the edge of the stage, and the emotion inducing moments such as ‘ Easy Terms’ and ‘Tell Me It’s Not True’.  Blood Brothers doesn’t politely try to invite you into its story, it grabs you by the scruff of the neck and shouts in your face.  It delivers humanity at its best and worst and holds a mirror up to all of us.  You will laugh, you will cry, you will jump, you may even scream, but you will not forget the night you went to watch Blood Brothers.

After seeing Niki Colwell Evans (X Factor, Kinky Boots, previous Blood Brothers production, Legally Blonde) perform as Mrs. Johnstone early this year, and still not being over the experience, I was thrilled to see her in the role again this evening.  I honestly didn’t think it possible, but she has got even better!  Her portrayal of grief broke me.  It truly broke me.  I felt everything I was supposed to feel through her performance, and it was so realistic the girl next to me turned to her partner and asked him, “Is she actually ok?”  A raw and moving portrayal of a mum who loves her kids so desperately that the worst answer seems like the only answer to make sure they are all provided for.    

Richard Munday (Mamma Mia, The Mikado, Phantom) is a strong presence as the Narrator.  Intimidating, threatening, and brutally honest, this is one of the best portrayals I have seen.  Audiences often giggle at the Narrator as they try and work out the purpose of the role, but tonight Munday kept us all well within his grasp and guided us throughout, ensuring the darkness of what had happened was never to be lost in the fun and frivolity.  He holds a mirror up to Mrs. Johnstone and Mrs. Lyons, ensuring they can never escape their actions, and therefore ensuring that we never forget.  He commands with a look, a sneer, a hand held out, a body block.  It is an impressive performance.

Mickey was performed by the amazing Sean Jones (The Turnip Field, Macbeth, resident comic at The Floral Pavilion New Brighton) .  It truly struck me tonight what a demanding part Mickey really is. From an impish seven-year-old boy full of enthusiasm and verve, right through to the chronically depressed, drug dependent adult he becomes, Jones makes Mickey accessible and understandable every step of the way.  You can’t help but fall in love with the cheeky rogue that bursts onto the stage on the back of an invisible horse, and through his carefully crafted and detailed storytelling, Jones keeps our loyalty with Mickey throughout his whole harrowing journey.  His is such a talent that you can be forgiven for forgetting that the tragic figure by the end is the same actor who started out spitting in the air then rolling it around in his jumper.  Fantastically believable.

Eddie was brought to adorable life by Jay Worley (Jack & The Beanstalk, The Santa Trap, Casualty).  He was endearing, charming, and full of youthful innocence.  He was able to flip from humour, to tears, to compassion, and your heart broke for him just as much as it did for Mickey.  Worley found the ying to Jones’ yang and their creative partnership underpinned the entire show.  Carly Burns (Hairspray, Tommy, Cinderella) completed the complicated love triangle as Linda.  Funny, light-hearted, serious, and sassy, Burns was a strong female presence who distinguished her different relationships with Mickey and Eddie beautifully.  Paula Tappenden as Mrs. Lyons bravely showed us an honest descent into the loss of her mind, while Tim Churchill as Mr. Lyons juxtaposed this with a detached and dismissive nature.  They made a great team.  Timothy Lucas as Sammy was wild, untamed and a little scary – even as a youngster, which is exactly what Sammy is supposed to be, and this had to be believable to allow us to buy into how Mickey ended up in the position he did.  Lucas certainly made this believable from the get-go.

The set is a piece of art, truly placing you in those Liverpool streets, with terraced houses lining the side of the stage, the warm glow of lights beaming out from an extremely busy working family home.  The contrast to detail given to the Lyons home is brilliant – even the space it is afforded on stage, captures the difference in class and helps guide our thought process.  Backdrops are layered in through the opening sequence, with graffitied walls, wrought iron bridges, over a Liverpool skyline that slowly wakes up.  Blue flashing lights depict a police presence.  The empty and derelict area highlights the life that Mrs. Johnstone and Mickey have.  Multiple levels are used as balconies, drawing our eyes in every direction and as the timeline unfolds, sets are dropped in which take us to the fair, the country, prison and the council.  It is quick, effective and helps guide the story.

I have seen Blood Brothers four times now, and every time it has been to a busy and enthusiastic audience.  I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again – it is a British institution.  I implore you to watch Blood Brothers because if nothing else, it will highlight that even if life throws a pile of doo dah at you, it is the choice that you make in response to the doo dah that seals your fate, not the doo dah itself.  Had Mickey have made a different choice regarding helping Sammy, the story would have ended differently.  Had Mrs. Johnstone made a different choice regarding her circumstances, or Mrs. Lyons chosen not to voice her maternal needs, we may not all be left sat in the audience ugly crying at the ending.  Sometimes, life sucks, there is no escaping that.  Blood Brothers allows you to question how our response to that suckiness can alter our path and impact our lives.  The injustice involved leaves you reeling so much that it is impossible to overlook the questions running round your head, and the various alternative ways your mind is probably screaming out that things could have been handled.  I’ve never viewed the show this way before which just goes to show that Blood Brothers always has something to say, always has something to teach you, and will always provide you with a different experience depending on your own current circumstances or mind set at the time of watching.  I’d say that is why audiences return time and time again to watch this beautifully penned show by the incomparable Willy Russell .  It never fails to deliver, it never fails to entertain and it never fails to make you appreciate everything you have in life.

Blood Brothers - Palace Theatre, Manchester - Tuesday 15th February 2022 by Karen Ryder

When I was young, I saw “Tell me it’s not true” performed at the Royal Variety on television.  This was my first taste of the Johnstone twins story and as well as blubbing uncontrollably, I was also instantly hooked by the trumpet accompaniment, as I was learning the instrument at the time.  So of course, my next brass lesson, I fancied myself as a bit of an expert and was all over that melody, convinced I was ready to step in should their trumpet player fall ill.  Of course, it probably sounded more like a fog horn / strangled cat duet but a little thing like reality wasn’t going to deter me.  Fast forward nine or so years and I got the chance to play it correctly whilst at university in a musicals revue.  My inner mini me was beaming.  In more recent years, I have guided many a GCSE drama student through the play, and only two days ago I was tutoring a student for a graded exam with his chosen piece from Blood Brothers – “Our Sammy.”  Why am I telling you all this?  I did forget my point halfway through my trip down memory lane to be honest (it’s been that kind of day) but basically it’s to show just how big the appeal of this show is, from young children, to teenagers, to adults and beyond.  I’ve loved this show at every age – possibly because every stage of life is represented in the show.  Its humourous to heart wrenching storyline, unbelievably catchy songs, solid Northern humour, and it’s unique approach of storytelling, all blend into a brilliantly bittersweet bloomin’ great show.

Blood Brothers is one of the most successful musicals of its time, consistently pulling in audiences whether they’re seeing the show for the tenth time or being wowed for the first time.  It is a show with humanity at its very core, exploring class division, love, life, friendship, family, and how fragile it can all be.  Just one lie can shatter all that you hold dear.  Set in 1960’s Liverpool, twin brothers Mickey and Eddie are separated at birth, one brought up with wealth, the other without.  Through chance, or fate, they meet as children and become the best of friends, sealing their bond with blood.  Little do they know it is shared blood that runs through their veins.  As they grow older they lose touch, but fate intervenes and once again they are drawn together as adults and as blood brothers .  They have no idea that their past will determine their future and end in tragedy.

The show opens with a pure drama.  The stage is flood lit in symbolic red to the slowly building echo of “Tell me It’s not true.”  Characters solemnly make their way on stage to ‘begin at the end’, giving us a glimpse of what is to become of our blood brothers Mickey and Eddie. Mrs. Johnstone and the Narrator guide us through the opening of the show, setting the scene of her circumstances and edging ever closer to the moment that seven-year-old Mickey bursts onto the stage playing Cowboys and Indians, with the fizzing imagination, energy and pure innocence of youth. 

Mickey was played by understudy Josh Capper (Hound Of The Baskervilles, Dreamboats and Petticoats, High School Musical) .  He was incredible!  Capper transformed the character of Mickey at every stage of his life, from a seven-year-old (even though he’s nearly eight!) to a twenty-something year old.  He was funny, loveable, innocent and charming as a child, cheeky, witty and playful as a teenager, and heartbreakingly, beaten and broken as an adult - a victim of class, circumstance and desperation.  

Eddie was portrayed by Joel Benedict (previous Blood Brothers tour, Spamalot, Hearts) and juxtaposed Mickey to perfection. Again, he endeared us to his character as we watched him grow up and discover fun and freedom through his friendship with Mickey.  Benedict made you love Eddie just as much as Mickey through his ability to see beyond class and see the person, unlike his mum and dad.  Finishing off the tragic trio was Carly Burns (Tommy, Cinderella) as Linda.  She was a beautiful blend of silly to sassy as she grew up and supported Capper and Benedict in their roles with respect yet she was never over shadowed.

Niki Evans (X Factor, Kinky Boots, previous Blood Brothers production, Legally Blonde) was outstanding as Mrs. Johnstone.  It became clear at the interval that I was sat amongst many die-hard Blood Brothers fans and their statement was “Best Mrs. Johnstone ever!”  Her emotional range was never ending and she didn’t half take us on a roller coaster of a journey, leaving virtually everyone gulping for air through their sobs as she started off the finale. Incredible.

Robbie Scotcher (Mamma Mia, Chess, Guys and Dolls) was the Narrator, a tricky part that does exactly what is says on the tin, but it is so much more.  Some audience members didn’t seem to know how to take this part and giggled as he seemingly randomly appeared on stage at any given moment, but I didn’t see it as random at all.  He was always there because he was holding up a mirror to Mrs. Johnstone and Mrs. Lyons, ensuring they could never escape their own conscience, their own guilt, and though they may hide their secret from the world, the Narrator reminded them and us that they could never hide it from themselves.  He was both a welcome and intimidating presence.

Blood Brothers will bleed you dry of every imaginable emotion.  There are moments of pure simple honesty, such as Mickey hiding under his oversized and over stretched sweater vest, crying at the cruelty of his older brother humiliating him infront of their friends.  There are blasts of hilarity with the unexpected but spot on one liners delivered as only kids can.  There are some of the most intricate human songs you will ever hear, moments you can hear a pin drop, finished off with shocks, tears, laughter and nostalgia.  It reaches out and touches you because it’s writer, Willy Russell , is a genius.

Blood Brothers is a British institution and its no shock that the theatre was utterly packed.  Tonight's performance was loved and appreciated so much that the cast were only able to leave the stage after about ten curtain calls to a full house of standing ovations from the audience.  I feel wrung out, but more appreciative of my lot in life, because if I’ve learnt anything tonight it’s that split decisions can change your life beyond recognition. We should never take anything for granted because any one of us could find ourselves, by chance, fate, or circumstance, as tomorrows cautionary tale.   

Whether the answer to that is yes or no, you should definitely go and hear it regardless because it is one story that certainly won’t become tomorrow's chip paper! WE SCORE BLOOD BROTHERS - 10/10

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March 23, 2024 Shooting at Moscow concert venue leaves over 130 dead

By Chris Lau, Andrew Raine , Catherine Nicholls, Issy Ronald, Lauren Said-Moorhouse and Tori B. Powell , CNN

Russian singer offers to pay for funerals and treatments 

From CNN's Mia Alberti 

Russian singer Shaman said he will pay for the funerals of the victims and treatments of those injured during the terror attack at the venue.

"We are all one big family. And in a family there is no such thing as somebody else's grief," the singer, known for his nationalistic views, said in a video posted on the Russian social media network Vkontakte to his more than 600,000 followers.

"My people, any troubles and misfortunes have always united our country. They have made Russia tougher and stronger. It will not be possible to frighten and break us this time either," he said. 

Correction: This story has been updated after an earlier version incorrectly stated that Shaman is a singer in the band Picnic.

At least 60 people died after Moscow's Crocus City hall attack

From CNN's Hande Atay Alam 

At least 60 people died as a result of the terrorist attack in Crocus on Friday, Russia's Investigative Committee said in a report on Saturday. 

There were also 145 people sent to hospitals, according to the Moscow Region’s Health Ministry, Russian state media TASS reported. 

Russia thwarted several ISIS related incidents in March, state media reports

From CNN's Katharina Krebs 

Over the last month, Russia has thwarted several ISIS related incidents in March alone, according to Russia’s state media agency RIA-Novosti.

Below is a list of different reported incidents across Russia that Russian authorities say involved people connected to ISIS, according to RIA:

• Reported on March 3: "The National Anti-Terrorism Committee reports that six criminals were neutralized during the counter-terrorist operation in the Ingush Karabulak. The identities of those killed have been previously established: they were adherents of the international terrorist organization ISIS."  https://t.me/rian_ru/233807
• Reported on March 7: "The FSB uncovered a cell of the banned organization Vilayat Khorasan in the Kaluga region, whose members were planning an attack on a synagogue in Moscow. When detained, the terrorists resisted and were neutralized by return fire."  https://t.me/rian_ru/234430
• Reported on March 20: " Security forces detained the commander of a combat group of the Islamic State terrorist organization banned in Russia, the press service of the FSB Directorate for Moscow and the region said in a statement. The Federal Security Service of Russia for the city of Moscow and the Moscow region detained an internationally wanted citizen of the Russian Federation, born on November 22, 1993, involved in the activities of the international terrorist organization ISIS."  https://ria.ru/20240320/fsb-1934440407.html
• Reported on March 12: "Law enforcement officers in the forest in the Sunzhensky district of Ingushetia found a cache with medicines and food, which, according to them, belonged to the militants liquidated in Karabulak in early March, the regional Ministry of Internal Affairs reported."  https://ria.ru/20240312/karabulak-1932544167.html

US warned Russia after steady stream of intelligence that ISIS-K was determined to attack, source says

From CNN’s Alex Marquardt, Natasha Bertrand and Jennifer Hansler 

Starting in November, there has been a steady stream of intelligence that ISIS-K was determined to attack in Russia, according to two sources familiar with the intelligence.

It was “fairly specific” intelligence, rising to the level of a duty to warn and the US intelligence community did indeed warn Russia, one of the sources said. But it’s not clear if this is directly tied to the March 7 warning by the US embassy in Moscow. 

Russian state media  reported  on March 7 that the FSB prevented an ISIS attack on a synagogue in Moscow, according to Reuters. The ISIS attackers were killed in a gunfight, the reports said.

A US official told CNN that the US is working to determine who is culpable for the attack at a Moscow concert venue.

Adrienne Watson, National Security Council spokesperson, issued a statement Friday on the US warning Russia about an attack.

"Earlier this month, the US government had information about a planned terrorist attack in Moscow – potentially targeting large gatherings, to include concerts – which prompted the State Department to issue a public advisory to Americans in Russia. The US Government also shared this information with Russian authorities in accordance with its longstanding ‘duty to warn’ policy."

Macron condemns Moscow terror attack and expresses solidarity with all Russians, Elysee Palace says

From CNN's Jonny Hallam

French President Emmanuel Macron said he "strongly condemns the terrorist attack claimed by the Islamic State" that left at least 40 people dead and more than 100 injured in a Moscow concert hall Friday, according to AFP and Reuters citing the Elysee Palace.

UN Security Council condemns "heinous" terrorist attack in Moscow

From CNN's Richard Roth and Mia Alberti

The United Nations Security Council condemned the "heinous and cowardly" attack at the Crocus concert hall in Krasnogorsk, in Moscow, on Friday, which left 40 dead and more than 140 people injured.

"The members of the Security Council expressed their deepest sympathy and condolences to the families of the victims and to the Russian people, and they wished a speedy and full recovery to those who were injured," the UNSC said in a statement.

The members of the UNSC urged all States to cooperate with the Russian government to "hold perpetrators, organizers, financiers and sponsors of these reprehensible acts of terrorism accountable and bring them to justice."

"The members of the Security Council reiterated that any acts of terrorism are criminal and unjustifiable, regardless of their motivation, wherever, whenever and by whomsoever committed," it said.

Moscow terror attack leaves 115 people hospitalized, 60 in "serious condition," Russian health minister says

From CNN's Darya Tarasova

Following the deadliest terror attack on Moscow in decades, 115 people have been hospitalized of which 60 are in a "serious condition," according to Russian Health Minister Mikhail Murashko. 

“We hospitalized 115 people, five of them are children. One child is in serious condition,” Murashko said in an early morning statment on Saturday according to Russian state media TASS.

UN chief strongly condemns "terrorist attack" in Russia

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has condemned "in the strongest possible terms today's terrorist attack at a concert hall outside Moscow," according to a statement released by deputy spokesperson for the Secretary-General, Farhan Haq. 

"The Secretary-General conveys his deep condolences to the bereaved families and the people and the Government of the Russian Federation. He wishes those injured a speedy recovery," the statement said.

Moscow urgently calls for blood donors to help treat dozens of wounded

Moscow City Duma Chairman Alexey Shaposhnikov late Friday called on Muscovites to come forward and give blood to help treat the dozens of wounded following Russia's deadliest terror attack in decades.

“After today’s tragedy in Crocus, many victims need donor blood. I ask you to donate blood for the wounded! Now this is very important, this is a matter of life and death for dozens of people,” Shaposhnikov said on Telegram

 Shaposhnikov listed several blood center facilities in the Moscow area that will accept donors throughout the weekend.

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