Supporting Blood Brothers, the latest production from Linskill Theatre
Linskill Theatre Group will be bringing another powerful play to a stage near you this summer, performing their version of Blood Brothers for two nights in June – and Wade Financial are once again proud to serve as the show’s principal sponsors.
The decision to perform a play rather than a musical marks a new direction for the theatre troupe, who traditionally stage musicals as part of their summer programme. Instead, the North Shields-based community group will take on a new and exciting challenge, producing a non-musical version of the award-winning Willy Russell classic.
The original opened in the West End in 1983, and the 1988 revival would go on to run for an incredible twenty-four years, with many of its leading actors earning nods for their work at the Olivier Awards. The show was similarly successful when it debuted on Broadway, garnering a slew of Tony Award nominations. Household names such as Russell Crowe and David Cassidy have starred in the production, while the likes of Kiki Dee, Barbara Dickson, Carole King and Petula Clark drew praise from the critics for their performances as Mrs Johnstone.
“We’re all delighted to continue our strong relationship with Linskill Theatre Group, who are going from strength to strength with every show they produce.”
Ian Little
The Linskill version will feature the same compelling story as the internationally-renowned musical. Set in Liverpool, Blood Brothers follows the tragic tale of twin boys, Mickey and Eddie, one of whom is spared from a life of poverty by a clandestine adoption. The two are drawn together through various moments of serendipity, eventually becoming fast friends without discovering the true nature of their relationship. The unconditional, unknowing bond that Mickey and Eddie share is jeopardised by their shared love of a girl and their contrasting circumstances, culminating in an intense and ultimately tragic closing act.
The play, which explores class and social status issues, is a far cry from the sunnier, feel-good nature of Linskill’s seasonal productions, but strong performances from Matthew Colledge, Laurence Hussein and Mel Armstrong Purdy will take the audience on an emotional tour de force, with touches of humour interspersing the powerful drama.
Blood Brothers sees Wade Financial serve as main sponsors for a fifth time, having backed two of Linskill Theatre’s pantomimes, as well as productions of Our House: The Musical and Rent.
“We’re all delighted to continue our strong relationship with Linskill Theatre Group, who are going from strength to strength with every show they produce,” says financial planner Ian Little. “The staging of Rent posed a number of challenges for Linskill’s enthusiastic volunteers, but the group rose to the occasion and put on three superb shows. We’re sure that this version of Blood Brothers will see some more promising actors come to the fore, showcasing their range of talents in this gripping and heartrending production.”
Blood Brothers is expected to run across two evenings, staged at the Linskill Centre on Friday 10th and Saturday 11th June. Visit the Linskill website in the coming weeks to keep abreast of updates on pricing and dates.