Blood Brothers, Bolton Little Theatre. Runs until Saturday. VERY funny and profoundly moving, here are the essential ingredients of drama at its most powerful. I found myself laughing hideously, then moments later almost in tears. This was down to Willy Russell's superb script, and the company's ability to exploit it to the maximum. Blood BrothersZwas made into a highly successful musical, but before that it was a very good play, and that's how BLT are staging it.

Set in Liverpool, it's the story of how a poverty-stricken mother separates her twins at birth, giving one to a rich childless couple.

Inevitably, the twins meet each otehr as children, and unaware they are really brothers, they swear an oath to be best mates and "blood brothers". Destiny plays its part, and because of their different backgrounds they are on course for conflict in adult life.

This production is absorbing because of Andrew Close's slick direction and fine performances from all the players.

Robin Thompson as Eddie Lyons is the epitome of a posh young boy, transforming himself ably into a privileged young man.

Ironically it's his sensitivity, compassion, and love for his twin which sets up the tragedy which befalls them.

Dave Parkes, as his borther Mickey Johnston, is equally effective as the working-class boy who ultimately develops the chip on his shoulder which drives him over the edge.

Heliene Godding's Liverpool accent and performance as Mrs Johnston is flawless as is Stephanie Bradley's display as the uppercust Mrs Lyons.

In the second half Helen Pierce-Jones, is both passionate and convincing in her role as Linda, the girl who loves both the brothers. All round this is a very high quality performance. NICK JACKSON

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