The adaptation of Blood Brothers by David Kramer is so amazingly and authentically evocative of Cape Town, that it’s difficult to imagine that Willy Russell’s acclaimed West End musical was originally set in Liverpool.
Blood Brothers has returned to Cape Town and the opening night audience on Wednesday 19th gave it a rousing, standing ovation. Deservedly so!
The staging at the Fugard is superbly realised – the essence of the Mother City at a particular time is effectively recreated. And the brilliant cast infects the stage with a particular Cape Town energy that plays straight to the heart.
Full credit must go to David Kramer for this credible adaptation. I have not seen the original Willy Russel production, and can only wonder how the transporting of the story to Cape Town was so convincingly achieved. It’s not simply about changing the names of the cities – this adaptation is perfectly true to its new sense of place. What you witness could only have happened in Cape Town. It’s the sound, the lyrics, the characters, the attitude, the history and the people that Kramer has skilfully employed to make it so authentic. Can this be a case of something ‘gained in translation’?
The current production now features singing sensation Alistair Izobell as the narrator, and Lynelle Kenned in the role of Mrs Lyons. Bianca Le Grange, continues playing the iconic role of Mrs Johnstone – and what a performance! Dean Balie as Eddie and Ephraim Gordon as Mickey are the twins, which they play with aplomb. But the entire cast is extremely strong as we reported in our previous blog.
The story is powerful, the performances strong, the lyrics and music are stirring. Blood Brothers adds up to a memorable theatrical experience with a very particular attitude, that must appeal to every Capetonian’s heart. Actually – make that anyone with a heart.
WHEN: to 22 March 2014. Performances run Tuesdays to Fridays at 8pm, and at 4pm and 8pm on Saturdays.
WHERE: Fugard Theatre, Caledon Street, Cnr of Harrington Street, District Six, Cape Town 8001
TICKETS: from R90 to R160, available via Computicket or the theatre box office on 
021 461 4554021 461 4554.
The production, adapted and directed by David Kramer, is produced by Pieter Toerien and Eric Abraham.
