Blood Brothers: A must see musical in London

by Laura Rutkowski
Ramstein High School


One of the greatest advantages of living in Germany has to be the abundant opportunities for travel. With different countries and cultures a short plane or car ride away, there is no reason to not embark on a new journey.

London, England, is within easy reach, presenting itself as a bustling, buzzing city. Home to numerous theaters, London hosts many thriving musicals.

With favorites like “Wicked,” “The Phantom of the Opera” and “Les Misérables” receiving much of the hype, lesser known musicals tend to take a backseat. However, do not mistake lesser known to mean less worthy.

I would like to shed some light on one of the longest running musicals in London, yet one of the most highly overlooked.

Willy Russell’s “Blood Brothers” was first performed on July 28, 1988, at the Albery Theater and continues to run today at the Phoenix Theater.

Speaking as a two-time audience member, I cannot emphasize how much I recommend this musical.

“Blood Brothers” follows the lives of twins, one living at home with his working-class mother and one given away at birth for a chance at a better life.
Set in Liverpool, England, this emotional roller coaster of a journey will have you on the edge of your seat right until the very end.

With easily lovable characters and a relatable backdrop, the audience
experiences the same joy and the same heartache portrayed in the musical.

This moving story illustrates the way environment shapes a person, with the nature versus nurture and rich versus poor debates rooted deeply into the plot.
Gripping and unexpected, “Blood Brothers” will leave you stunned and chanting the catchy songs for days afterward.

It is no mystery why people continue to experience this riveting story time and time again.

The actors truly make the whole occasion an unforgettable evening,
giving completely convincing performances full of emotion throughout.

Prior to seeing “Blood Brothers” for the first time, I had never heard any mention of it and was less than eager to watch a musical I knew nothing about. After my first viewing, it instantly became my favorite.

The final curtain call comes much too soon, eliciting roaring applause and standing ovations from a more than appreciative audience.

On your next trip, take the road a little less traveled and watch as you reap the benefits. Maybe you’ll even be inspired to see “Blood Brothers” next time you’re in London.

With the routine of daily life, it can be easy to forget that culture and new experiences surround us.

All I ask is you keep an open mind, because when you live in Europe, the opportunities are endless.