Blood Brothers in Derry 2026

Blood Brothers musical weaves a tale of fate and friendship that will leave you breathless. Experience the riveting story of two brothers separated at birth as they navigate the complexities of life. Catch this unforgettable performance at the Millennium Forum Theatre in Derry, February 17 – February 21, 2026. Don’t miss your chance—grab your Blood Brothers tickets now!

Blood Brothers Derry Tickets

Currently, there are no tickets available for Blood Brothers in Derry. Please check back later or explore other cities for available dates and tickets.

Cast in Derry

The 2026 UK tour of Blood Brothers features a talented ensemble bringing Willy Russell’s classic musical to life across the country.

• Vivienne Carlyle as Mrs Johnstone
• Rebecca Storm as Mrs Johnstone
• Sean Jones as Mickey
• Joe Sleight as Eddie
• Laura Harrison as Mrs Lyons
• Richard Munday as Narrator
• Kristofer Harding as Narrator
• Gemma Brodrick as Linda

The Venue: Millennium Forum Theatre

Blood Brothers on Tour: Explore Upcoming Cities

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Blood Brothers showing in Derry?

Blood Brothers will be performed at the Millennium Forum Theatre in Derry from Tuesday 17 February to Saturday 21 February 2026. The production offers multiple performances throughout the week including both matinee and evening shows. This is part of the spring 2026 UK and Ireland tour of this iconic musical. The Derry performances are particularly special as they feature Ireland’s own musical theatre legend Rebecca Storm in the role of Mrs Johnstone.

What is Blood Brothers about?

Blood Brothers tells the captivating and moving tale of twin boys separated at birth who grow up on opposite sides of the tracks, only to meet again with fateful consequences. Set in Liverpool, the story follows Mrs Johnstone, a young mother deserted by her husband who struggles to provide for her seven hungry children while working as a housekeeper. When she discovers she is pregnant with twins, she makes a desperate secret pact with her wealthy employer Mrs Lyons. One twin, Mickey, remains with his working-class birth mother, while Edward is raised in privilege by the Lyons family. The boys meet as children without knowing they are brothers and become inseparable friends, pledging to be blood brothers. As they grow through childhood, adolescence and into adulthood, the stark differences in their opportunities and upbringings shape their lives in dramatically different ways. The story explores profound themes of class inequality, fate, friendship and family, building inexorably to a shattering climax when long-held secrets are revealed. The memorable score includes emotionally charged songs like Tell Me It’s Not True, Bright New Day, and Marilyn Monroe.

How long is the Blood Brothers performance?

Blood Brothers runs for approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes including one interval. The interval typically lasts around 20 minutes, giving audiences time to enjoy refreshments at the theatre bar, use the facilities, or discuss the powerful first act with companions. The production features two acts filled with drama, humor and memorable musical numbers that take you on an unforgettable emotional journey.

Is Blood Brothers suitable for children?

Blood Brothers has an age guidance of 12 years and above. The production contains strong language, adult themes including poverty and unemployment, scenes of violence, recorded gunshot effects, and references to depression and mental health struggles. Children under 5 are not permitted in the theatre. For young people aged 12 and older, Blood Brothers can be a valuable and deeply moving theatrical experience. However, parents should be aware that while the show includes moments of joy and humor, it tackles serious social issues and builds to an emotionally intense and tragic conclusion that may be upsetting for sensitive viewers.

How can I get cheap tickets for Blood Brothers at the Millennium Forum?

There are several effective ways to secure affordable tickets for Blood Brothers in Derry. Book your tickets as early as possible to access the best prices and widest seat selection. Midweek performances on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday are typically cheaper than weekend shows. Matinee performances often offer better value than evening performances. Contact the Millennium Forum box office directly to inquire about any available concession prices for students, seniors, or groups. Group bookings of 10 or more people usually receive discounts. Consider seats in different areas of the auditorium as some locations offer excellent value while still providing good views of the stage. Check the Millennium Forum website regularly for special offers and promotions. Some membership programs and loyalty schemes offer theatre ticket discounts. For disabled booking assistance and potential accessible seating discounts, call the dedicated line on 02871 26 44 55.

What awards has Blood Brothers won?

Blood Brothers stands as one of the most acclaimed British musicals ever created. When it opened in London in 1983, it won the Laurence Olivier Award for Best New Musical. Barbara Dickson won the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Actress in a Musical for her unforgettable portrayal of Mrs Johnstone. The production also received the Plays and Players Award for Best Musical and the Ivor Novello Award for Best Musical, both in 1983. In 1988, Con O’Neill won the Laurence Olivier Award for Best Actor in a Musical for his performance. When the show transferred to Broadway in 1993, Mark Michael Hutchinson won the Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Featured Actor in a Musical. The musical enjoyed a remarkable 24-year continuous run in London’s West End, making it one of the longest-running musicals in British theatre history and cementing its status as a modern theatrical masterpiece.

Where is the Millennium Forum and how do I get there?

The Millennium Forum Theatre is located in the heart of Derry city centre. The venue is easily accessible by multiple transport options. If you are traveling by car, there is parking available in the city centre with various car parks within walking distance of the theatre. The theatre is well-served by local bus routes with stops nearby. If you are arriving by train or bus from other cities, Derry city centre is compact and the theatre is within easy walking distance of the main bus and train stations. The Millennium Forum is a prominent venue in the city and is well-signposted. For disabled visitors requiring accessible parking, contact the disabled booking line on 02871 26 44 55 in advance to discuss arrangements and ensure the best possible experience for your visit.

What makes this Derry production special?

The Derry performances of Blood Brothers are particularly special as they feature Ireland’s own musical theatre legend Rebecca Storm as Mrs Johnstone. Rebecca Storm has made this iconic role her own over the years and is thrilled to return to Blood Brothers for these performances in her home country. Her powerful voice and emotionally resonant performance bring exceptional depth and authenticity to the character of Mrs Johnstone. Local audiences will have the rare opportunity to see one of Ireland’s finest performers in one of musical theatre’s greatest roles. This combination of a beloved classic musical with a celebrated Irish performer creates a truly unmissable theatrical event for the Derry community.

What facilities are available at the Millennium Forum?

The Millennium Forum Theatre offers comprehensive facilities to enhance your visit. The venue features bars serving alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, hot drinks and snacks, which are open before the performance and during the interval. Toilet facilities are available throughout the theatre including accessible toilets for disabled visitors. The theatre is equipped to support visitors with various accessibility needs. For specific information about accessibility features, wheelchair access, hearing loops, or other requirements, contact the dedicated disabled booking line on 02871 26 44 55 when making your reservation. The staff at the Millennium Forum are experienced in supporting visitors with access needs and will be happy to discuss your requirements to ensure you have the best possible experience.

What makes Blood Brothers worth seeing?

Blood Brothers has earned its place as one of the most beloved musicals in theatre history for numerous powerful reasons. Willy Russell’s brilliant writing achieves a perfect balance between heartbreak and humor, laughter and tears, creating an emotional journey audiences never forget. The musical score features songs that have become theatrical classics, moving seamlessly from joyful and uplifting to deeply tragic and haunting. The story tackles universal themes of class division, destiny, loyalty and family in a way that remains profoundly relevant today. Critics consistently praise the production’s emotional impact, with audiences giving standing ovations night after night. The 2026 tour features exceptional performances from acclaimed actors including the legendary Rebecca Storm as Mrs Johnstone for the Derry performances, bringing her remarkable talent and emotional depth to this iconic role. The production combines professional direction, stunning design and powerful performances to create theatrical magic that will stay with you long after the final curtain. Whether experiencing Blood Brothers for the first time or returning to this classic, the show promises an unforgettable evening of world-class musical theatre.

Click to see your ticket’s current value