ALTHOUGH the play version of Willy Russell’s “Blood Brothers” is not seen as much by the general public as it’s daughter the musical – some students do however, study it as part of their GCSE English Literature syllabus – it is pretty much the same except for the twenty or so songs of course. The lack of musical numbers allows the play to be both sinister and thought-provoking, with the themes of fate and fortune having a constant presence.

A solo violin sets the haunting scene at The Memorial Hall, Rangeworthy for The Court Players to superbly capture the gripping and emotional tale of the twins who are separated at birth; grow up living different lives at either end of the social scale and then involved in a triangle of love, lies and loyalty leading up to the tragic climax.

Director Bryan Quinlan squeezed every ounce of tension, tenderness and trauma from the script and the actors performed excellently using a compact functional set with effective projection to deliver an extremely credible production which didn’t leave a dry eye in the house.

David Churchley and Mark Gregory are well matched as the fateful and contrasting twins Mickey and Eddie. We see them grow in convincing style from naïve seven year olds, through frustrated adolescences to angry and well off adults with two faultless performances.

Gill Cope, as Mrs Johnstone, gives an excellent account of herself; with her characterisation of the gritty working-class, single mother from the Council Estate while Jackie Ross gives a sensitive portrayal of the troubled and manipulative wealthy Mrs Lyons.

Aileen Bailey as the Narrator provides a sinister figure representing fate, who stalks the characters, reminding them of their haunting secret. A final mention must go to Hannah Lewis for her role as “Linda”, who finds herself as the rope in a game of tug o’ war between the two brothers and making up the fateful love triangle. We see her transformed from cheeky juvenile to long-suffering wife who proved the ideal foil for both the boys.

The cast has brilliant chemistry and worked well together, keeping the audience hooked right up to the dramatic conclusion.

This group has provided many memorable productions over the years and I am sure this show will remain in the hearts and memories of the audience (and cast) for many years to come.

The Court Players next production is “Panic Stations” A Comedy by Derek Benfield and will be performed 25 to 27 February, 2016 again at The Memorial Hall, Rangeworthy.