Willy Russell’s internationally acclaimed musical Blood Brothers returns to Bournemouth Pavilion today from Tuesday 14 April to Saturday 18 April 2026, bringing with it a cast of celebrated performers and a legacy of unforgettable productions that have captivated audiences for more than two decades.

Written by the acclaimed Willy Russell, this legendary musical tells the heartbreaking and gripping story of twin boys separated at birth and raised on opposite sides of the social divide, only to be drawn together again with tragic consequences.

With its gripping narrative, soaring score and powerhouse performances, Blood Brothers remains one of the longest‑running and most beloved musicals in theatre history. This latest production promises to deliver all the emotion, humour and dramatic intensity that have made it a phenomenon for more than 30 years.

Blood Brothers' legacy at Bournemouth Pavilion

In 2004, from 9–14 August, Linda Nolan starred as Mrs Johnstone. Having previously joined the West End company of Blood Brothers in 2001 following a year‑long tour, she had spent two successful years at the Phoenix Theatre before returning to the road.

In 2006, from 1–6 May, Linda Nolan returned once more to the role of Mrs Johnstone. By this point, she had been performing in the award‑winning musical continuously since January 2000, both on UK tours and in London’s West End, cementing her status as one of the show’s most recognisable leading ladies.

The 2009 production, staged from 18–22 August, featured seventies pop star Lyn Paul in the role of Mrs Johnstone. As a member of The New Seekers, Paul enjoyed significant international success, her career also included performing at President Nixon’s inauguration and representing the UK in the Eurovision Song Contest. Paul first joined the West End cast of Blood Brothers in 1997 and remained for three years, making her return to the role particularly noteworthy for longtime fans.

From 17–21 January 2012, Maureen Nolan continued the Nolan family connection to the show when she stepped into the role of Mrs Johnstone. Her appearance echoed the success of her sister Linda before her.

In 2019, from 26 February to 2 March, the Pavilion welcomed actress Linzi Hateley as Mrs Johnstone. The production also introduced three new cast members - Alexander Patmore as Mickey, Joel Benedict as Eddie and Paula Tappenden as Mrs Lyons - each bringing fresh interpretations and renewed energy to these central roles.

This year’s tour sees the return of several much‑loved performers alongside exciting new talent, continuing a tradition of powerhouse vocals, gripping storytelling and standing‑ovation‑worthy performances.

Vivienne Carlyle continues her widely acclaimed portrayal of Mrs Johnstone, a role that has earned her consistent praise and nightly standing ovations on recent tours. Richard Munday returns as the Narrator following his successful run in the 2022–2023 UK tour. Laura Harrison also rejoins the company, this time as Mrs Lyons, fresh from alternating as Elphaba in Wicked and covering Norma Desmond in Jamie Lloyd’s Sunset Boulevard. Harrison previously appeared in the 2015 tour as Donna Marie. Sean Jones, who performed at the Pavilion in 2012, returns as Mickey, joined once again by Joe Sleight as Eddie. Gemma Brodrick continues her role as Linda, completing a strong and well‑established central cast.

With its gripping narrative, soaring score and powerhouse performances, Blood Brothers remains one of the longest‑running and most beloved musicals in theatre history.

For more information and to book tickets, visit bournemouthpavilion.co.uk