Bill Kenwright’s legendary, multi award-winning production of beloved 1980s Liverpool-based musical ‘Blood Brothers' is set to return to the road in early 2026, with a strong cast line-up that blends familiar faces with celebrated performers. The tour opens at Churchill Theatre, Bromley, next week from Wednesday 14th – Saturday 17th January.
Much-loved performer Vivienne Carlyle continues in the iconic role of Mrs Johnstone, following widespread critical acclaim and nightly standing ovations during recent tours. Sharing narration duties are Richard Munday, who reprises the role at selected venues after appearing on the 2022–23 tour, and Kristofer Harding, who first played the Narrator in 2016 and returned again in 2025.
Also returning is Laura Harrison, fresh from major roles in ‘Wicked' and Jamie Lloyd’s ‘Sunset Boulevard'. Harrison previously appeared in ‘Blood Brothers' as Donna Marie on the 2015 tour and now steps into the pivotal role of Mrs Lyons. For performances in Derry and Dublin, the role of Mrs Johnstone will be played by Irish musical theatre favourite Rebecca Storm, who joins the company for a limited run at the Millennium Forum and Bord Gáis Energy Theatre.
Fan favourites Sean Jones and Joe Sleight reprise their roles as twins Mickey and Eddie, with Gemma Brodrick returning as Linda. The supporting cast also sees the return of Michael Gillett (Sammy), Tim Churchill (Mr Lyons), Francesca Benton-Stace (Donna Marie/Miss Jones), Latesha Karisa (Brenda), Dominic Gore (Neighbour), Alex Harland (Policeman/Teacher) and Graeme Kinniburgh (Postman/Bus Conductor).
Written by Willy Russell (‘Educating Rita'), ‘Blood Brothers' remains one of the most successful and emotionally powerful British musicals of all time. First staged as a school play in Liverpool in 1981 before opening professionally at the Liverpool Playhouse in 1983, the show has since enjoyed extraordinary success worldwide. Bill Kenwright’s production ran for over 10,000 performances in London’s West End and has toured internationally, earning four Best Musical awards in London and seven Tony Award nominations on Broadway.
‘Blood Brothers' tells the devastating story of twin boys separated at birth and raised on opposite sides of society. As their lives intersect again in adulthood, a desperate decision made years earlier leads to tragic and unforgettable consequences. The remarkable, hard-hitting story continues to resonate with audiences through its unforgettable songs and raw emotional impact.
‘Blood Brothers' plays Churchill Theatre Bromley from Wednesday 14th to Saturday 17th January 2026. Tickets are on sale now.
