THE legendary Blood Brothers is one of the most successful musicals ever after being lavished with numerous awards.

The Hall for Cornwall is staging five performances of the William Russell classic up until Saturday providing people with an opportunity to see why the show has captivated audiences around the world.

Set in Liverpool in the 1950s, it follows the journeys of Eddie and Micky as they grow up in contrasting worlds, having been separated by their mother who could not afford to keep them both.

This forces her to give Eddie away to her wealthy boss who is unable to bear her own children.

As they grow older, they begin to gravitate back towards each other, until they eventually become friends. However, the touching story of unconditional and instinctive brotherly love is tarnished forever by tragedy.

The musical takes the audience on a rollercoaster ride of emotions from the off as it begins, strangely, at the story’s end.

The play I’m sure would pull on the heartstrings of even the most hardened but there are also plenty of laughs as the brothers grow from children to adults.

The real beauty of the musical for me is how thought provoking it is.

It highlights the importance of friendship and family, but also raises the question of how a person’s development can be impacted positively or negatively through nature and nurture as well as poverty and wealth.

It cleverly portrays how Eddie and Micky are genetically kindred spirits, but their opportunities in life are so different because of their environment.

Although the musical was set more than 70 years ago, I’m sure the storyline resonates with young people trying to find their way in the world as much today as it has since it was first performed in 1983.

Affectionately christened the ‘Standing Ovation Musical,’ the audience certainly gave the show its stamp of approval as they rose to their feet clapping and cheering.