- GUESTBOOK:
- We really want to hear your
thoughts and comments about Willy Russell's plays, the musical
- BLOOD BROTHERS, his novel - WRONG BOY, the new
CD - HOOVERING THE MOON and this new web-site. So come on - if you've
been to see BLOOD BROTHERS, or have performed in one of
Willy Russell's plays at college or school, read WRONG BOY and found yourself laughing out loud
in front of complete strangers, or enjoyed tracks from Willy's
album, HOOVERING THE MOON - let us know.
- Please email the site and
we shall be pleased to include your comments on Willy's work.
| Click
here to add to the guestbook entries... GUESTBOOK |
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- Karen Palin - Liverpool
Please re-release dancing
thru the dark, I still remember it from years ago and would love
to be able to buy it on DVD.
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- Sue Fowler - UK
Have you come across
a screenplay ‘Politics and Terror’ probably written
by Willy Russell 1978-80? Its not listed anywhere that I can
find…
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- Mark J Tansley - Nottingham
hi there. would just
like to say ive seen yet again about the 6th time now the dramatic
Blood Brothers in Nottingham UK The voice of Linda Nolan was
as amazing as ever I simply love going to see live entertainment
and collect signatures of things I see Would it be possible for
me to send my Blood Brothers Programme, CD, flyer? somewhere
to be signed by the great Willy Russell
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- Emma Duckstein - Cardiff
I think Blood Brothers
is amazing, I get all weepy when watching the end! I went to
see it last night in Cardiff, New Theatre, that would be the
8th time Ive seen it! Bring it out on DVD some how! I would buy
it definate.
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- Johnathon King - UK
Wrong Boy was one of
the best novels I've ever read - why no others?
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- Kirsten - Birkenhead
Just want to say dancin
thru the dark is the best film ever and please if you ever make
it again can i be in it? Worth an ask
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- Ivan Chilquillo, Cesar
Gutierrez & Juan Villegas - Lima, Peru
Mr. Russell, Maybe
you don’t remember us, we are the guys who have been in
your house in may 1999 … the Peruvian guys. We performed
Peruvian music in a Liverpool church. Well we saw some videos
about blood brothers in Youtube what’s more we got excited
about you then we found your web page. We remember about you
and your family, were so friendly … thank you a lot for
everything. Thanks Mister Russell to give us the opportunity
to see you excellent creation “Blood Brothers” in London.
Nowadays, we work performing music at the Lima airport in Peru.
We enjoy everything about music. You can check our web page if
you like …
- <www.illayandinoperu.com>
We would like to interchange
some music. We know that you are a really important person around
the world. Please let us know a bit more about your work and
to improve our knowledge. Thank you for your time and please
give our regards to everybody. Yours Faithfully. PS. Our English
is not good, sorry!
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- Harry Silverman - UK
Im in year 10 and im
reading the play for my coursework, I would like to know, what
happened to Linda, Mrs.Lyons and The Mother after she shot the
"blood brothers"?
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- Royston - UK
I have seen blood brothers
several times now and can not believe how majestically Lyn Paul
plays the part of Mrs Johnston, Mr Russell who has the power
to arrange a new CD of the latest cast, coincidentially that
happens to be Lyn Paul. I think its about time dont you?
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- Liz Holland - UK
Hey, I’m doing
a monologue segment from your play Shirley valentine for my year
ten assessment piece. I just wanted to say I really enjoyed the
play and this website was quite useful. So thank you. I really
love your plays.
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- Pauline Byrne - Liverpool
Hi Willy, For my 50th
Birthday in 2006, my sister-in-law Martha was working in your
friends flower shop, and knowing that I am a very big fan of
yours, she asked your friend if it would be possible for you
to sign something for me. I think it was the next day that your
car pulled up outside and my sister-in-law was so shocked to
see you entering the shop with a copy of your CD "Hoovering
the Moon" and a card wishing me all the best for my significant
birthday. It certainly was the icing on the cake of my 50th.
Best Wishes
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- Christina - Liverpool
I have seen Blood Brothers
twice once in London and then in my home town of Liverpool. This
show is quite poignant for me personally as I, like the twins
in the show, was born in Liverpool together with my twin sister
but we were put in Browlow Hill orphanage where my sister was
adopted when we were five weeks old and I was left. Apparently
I fretted a lot for my twin but then two years later I was adopted
by the most wonderful parents anybody could wish to have. My
mum told me that for each birthday and Christmas, I used to want
a fariy wand so that I could wave it and get my greatest wish
- a twin sister. I had a total fascination for twins when I passed
my scholarship and went to Grammar school, on my first day mum
asked all about the class I was in and all wanted to talk about
was the fact that there were two sets of twins in my class (mum
said later that she thought "little does she know there
are three sets of twins") I only found out about my twin
sister when I was 15 and merely because I wanted to see my birth
certificate which was stamped ADOPTED birth certificate. I eventually
traced my sister who lived in Bollington, Cheshire
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- Jane Williams - Liverpool
I went to see Stags
and Hens last week with my sister at the Royal Court, Liverpool.
We both cried with laughter. Willy was there and we were absolutely
dumb struck. My sister is a drama teacher and she studied Willy's
work throughout college and now teaches it. She was so star struck
she could not move and she will talk to anyone! The play was
fantastic and I would love Dancin Through the Dark to be released
onto DVD. This guy is a legend, one of Liverpool's finest.
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- Paul Willis - Ireland
Have been this weekend
to see the Saturday matinee of The Blood Brothers" - Absolutely
fantastic" The acting & singing was superb by all the
cast. We were enthralled for the entire performance. The 4 standing
ovations suggested I was not on my own. Yours in anticipation
of a revisit.
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- Grainne - Ireland
Hi. My name is grainne
(grace in english) I come from Dublin, Ireland and I'm 16 years
old. Last year for our 4th year variety show we learned Marilyn
Monroe and Tell me it's not true. Myself and my friends immediately
fell in love with Blood Brothers! I hope to go and see it next
month in the Gaeity Theatre in Dublin along with my sister who
loved the blood brothers songs when she came to the variety show.
Thank you for introducing me to another musical. Slan leat.
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- Laura - Liverpool
Please Please re-release
Dancin Thru the Dark dvd and the soundtrack to go with it!!!!
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- Rachel Pattenden - Liverpool
We went to see Stag’s
and Hen’s in Liverpool last night and it was absolutely
fabulous! It was funny, witty and a great evening out! The actors
made the play and the woman who played the bride was fantastic.
She played the part wonderfully! A must see!
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- Susan Stafford - UK
Please release Dancin
Thru The Dark on DVD. Ive searched the web and found it is available
in USA but of course that is the wrong region. If it is available
there why is it not available here, the yanks probably wont understand
it anyway. Surely with the amount of requests on this guestbook
alone it clearly shows that it is in high demand and will be
a good seller.
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- Jessica Benton - Italy
Dear Willy, I'm the
owner of a small - small - small bookstore in northern Italy.
i'm reading "The wrong boy" and i must tell you it's
absolutely one of the best books ever. really. i still don't
know how it's gonna end up but can't wait. and there's a collateral
effect - i can only listen to the smiths in the meanwhile! just
to tell,i really adore Twinky, since the first time he shows
up through the pages. i will surely tell all my customers to
buy your book because it's really worth having. Greetings and
a big hug. and forgive me for my approssimative use of english
language.i can assure you my italian is much better. Love, Bea.
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- Duncan Ryan - Scotland
Dear Mr Russell, I
am sorry to inform you that there is a glitch in your otherwise
flawless play “Terraces.” In scene 14 near the end
“Joey” talking about Danny’s house, says “we’ll
even paint it back to normal when the final’s over.”
In the TV programme, however, the houses are stone, so how can
you paint it back to stone ? This is why I’m confused ?
I am Ryan Duncan, a pupil of Forres Academy (in the North of
Scotland). If you could answer my query I would be much obliged.
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- Vicky Hayter - Chichester
Willy Russell you are
my saviour. After rediscovering Educating Rita several years
after leaving school you made me realise that I could change
my less than perfect life and achieve anything I want. You rescued
my soul. I now live life knowing that there is a world out there
for everyone but you must be brave enough to go and explore it.
After changing things and learning to go out and do the things
I want to do, I met my husband to be (we're getting married on
8th March 2008). Thank you for that, he's the the most amazing
person and I can't wait to spend the rest of my life with him.
I'm now set to embark on a career change and at the age of 30
will be returning to college in September. I'm at last able to
look to the future. I would also like to express my gratitude
for the wonderful Blood Brothers. I have seen it 15 times since
2001 and intend to see it again on many more occasions. It would
be a huge tragedy to British theatre if this show ever closes.
Many thanks for all your fantastic work which I hope will be
continued and recognised for many more years.
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- Allan Steven, London
Reading Steve Williams'
post about Edinburgh was a pleasure. I was also a member of the
company, as an actor. Willy, Ray and I were the male members
of our year's Drama course, and other males and females were
recruited to make up 'Cateysaints'. Memories of those fantastic
two weeks are still with me. One day we filtered ourselves into
Princes' Street Gardens with each individual having a letter
of the alphabet pinned to their back. We casually lay down, side-by-side,
to sunbathe, and looking down from Princes' St. it read - BLIND
SCOUSE. We were moved on abruptly for advertising where we
shouldn't. A couple of days later we went to see a one man show
called JOCK starring Russell Hunter (Lonely from the tv series
Callan for those of you old enough to remember). Before the show
he spotted our t-shirts and exclaimed, " You're the bastards."
We then had a very friendly conversation where he explained that
we'd interrupted a tv interview he was doing with our advertising
stunt. Two other brief memories. Willy had a nosebleed that wouldn't
stop and he had to have it cauterised - ouch! And the final night.
We struck the set and cleared out of the Rifle Lodge to join
others at George's for the party. Someone who shall remain nameless
- Dave - handed me a pint that was 50% vodka. Don't recall much
else.
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- Megan Dennis - Liverpool
Hello, I would just
like to say I went to see Blood Brothers at the Empire Theatre
in Liverpool and it was absolutely amazing, I cried my heart
out. Is it ever going to be put out on DVD? Well Done to all
the cast. xx
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- Iain Condie - Glasgow
Please please release
Dancing through the dark !!!!!
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- Debby Wood - Liverpool
I didnt actually realise
Willy Russell had done all the things he has, I have seen only
a few of them but am going to see Blood Brothers on07/01/08 and
was already looking forward to it but am now more looking to
it after reading all the comments. I LOVE DANCING THRU THE DARK
PLEASE RE-RELEASE IT ASAP, I WILL GLADLY PAY FULL PRICE rather
than downloading from internet.
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- Dan Seal - Wirral
Hello Mr Russell! I'd
just like to say i love your work, fantastic plays! I have performed
in One For The Road and Our Day Out and i have to say, are both
two of my all time favourite texts. Do you have any future plays
in progress you are writing? All the best
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- Amanda Duckett - UK
Please Please re-release
Dancin thru the Dark Its a classic and after 14 yrs of having
it on video I have finally worn the tape out. Need a new copy,
and would like to know where to get a copy of the soundtrack
Cheers xx
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- Sophie - Huddersfield
Hi I do Performing
Arts at Huddersfield Technical College and I just played Pauline
in One For The Road. I'd never heard of the play before, but
when I read it, I realised that it was absolutely genious, I
enjoyed playing Pauline very much, and the play had me in stitches
from start to finish.
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- Jacqui Lucas - Liverpool
Hya my name is Jacqui
Lucas and I was Linda Croxley in the original Our Day Out and
although it was 30 years ago it was still the best experience
of my life I loved every minute of it, and I love following the
career of one of my favourite actors Alun Armstrong who played
a nasty Mr Briggs in the play.
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- Kim - Manchester
Hi Willy, It would
be great to see all your work issued on DVD. Are there any plans
for this? It is very interesting to read about your professional
collaboration with Kate Rusby, Since hearing her with Ronan Keating
I have purchased all her albums. She, like yourself, is very
talented and certainly introduced me to the genre of Folk. May
I wish you the best of luck with the musical side of your career
and hope it proves as successful all the other projects you have
undertaken. I very much look forward to hearing your C.D. Best
Wishes
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- Tony Stratton - UK
I would like to know
if there is a dvd recording of blood brothers the musical or
if there is plans for a release in the future
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- Clive White - London
I've been thoroughly
delighted by your inspired, emotional, reading of your wonderful
book, The Wrong Boy, on Oneword radio every afternoon. As long
as art continues to be produced, with the simple honesty and
emotional resonance of your work, there is hope for society.
regards
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- P Edwards - UK
Please can anyone tell
me how to find a good VHS copy of "Our Day Out"? We
have used the text in school for years as part of our GCSE work
but our copies, taken from the Channel 4 screening some time
ago, are sadly well past their best. The kids love the film but
groan every time it goes wrong! Better still does anyone know
if it's likely to be released on DVD? Many thanks
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- Caroline - UK
Please please please
release Dancin Thur the Dark on DVD and CD. It is my favourite
film and my VHS copy has finally given up. There are so many
people who want this movie as it is an classic. Thank you
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- Kerry Hines - Zurich
The Wrong Boy: I should order this book in batches,
because I keep giving copies to people, and having to get another.
I can't actually recall the number of times I have read it, but
I picked it up when it was first published in 2001, and I refer
to it often, It is certainly the funniest I have read in quite
some time, but at the same time sad. So many hilarious scenes,
and characters. Many of course include Raymond, but Twinky wanting
to breast feed baby Jesus was hilarious. I see that Willy says
the "powers-that-be having decided that they don’t
see The Wrong Boy as a TV series", perhaps they are concerned
about the fly trapping game?. Better perhaps, make a film of
it, and give it the justice it deserves. OK, it might not make
it in the States, but who cares? It would be their loss.
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- Janet Street - Liverpool
Dear Mr. Russell, I
started writing when my son was born 16 years ago. I enrolled
on a short story course, but couldn’t pursue my love of
writing as I have always been in full time employment and never
seemed to have the time. However, since entering a competition
recently with United Press Ltd., to write a poem about your home
town, and having my poem accepted for publication, it has encouraged
me to pick up where I left off, this time in the form of poetry.
I think your work is amazing, loved your Capital of Culture of
poem.
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- Denise Greeneaves - Wirral
I can't thank you enough
for all the pleasure you have given us. I was a 'Rita' - did
a late degree and then taught in an all boys comp. I introduced
Blood Brother's to the school and we have gone through hundreds
of copies as it's the only book the kids take home and won't
bring back 'cos they want to keep it. They also love 'Our Day
Out' and......I think that The Wrong Boy was the best book I
read all year when it was published. You are an inspiration and
a blessing.
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- Mark Webb - UK
I have just finished
watching a old tape of 'Our day Out' and I too would love to
know became of the young performers in the play. Does anyone
know if they went on to acting careers?
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- Marion Hardcastle - Weymouth
Dear Guestbook - Please
could anyone tell me if Blood Bros is likely to be put on to
DVD in the foreseeable future? My daughter and I are ardent fans
of the show and she has even taught her two children all the
songs. We started in Manchester with the Kiki Dee, Con O'Neal,
Warwick Evans, Robert Locke production which then went to London.
When Mark Hutchinson took over the role of Eddie, Zoe was given
a backstage tour and met members of the cast and has kept in
touch with him. Last year I saw the touring production here in
Weymouth and was enthralled as always. I hope it wont be long
before we can get this on DVD - but who would one have in the
cast? Regards to all other fans.
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- Karen - Wales
I went to see Blood
Brothers in London this year it was fantastic the songs were
amazing they really moved me they were so powerfull and the acting
. The best thing I have seen in years .
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- Ruth - Tynewydd, Wales
a special happy birthday.
ruthx
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- Karen - Wales
I have been trying
to get a cd of dancin thru thr dark and dvd it was a fantastic
film and I loved the songs and con o'neill was fantastic in it.
Can anyone tell me if there are any plans to re-release it as
I'm sure lots of people would buy it. regards
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- Dawn Annandale - London
The Wrong Boy: Every
teacher, social worker and do gooder in the whole country should
read
this book. It is one of the most perceptive books I have ever
read. You are a very clever man who obviously bothers to listen
and look at life from every angle. Congratulations and I shall
definitely be reading more of your work. All best.
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- Julie Atkinson - Woolton,
Liverpool
Hi. "Our day Out"
starred some of my senior school, school friends and it was another
world having friends in a film and being at school with them,
i was wondering whether (having lost contact with most of my
school friends) any of them carried onto bigger things after
Our Day Out eg Angela Butler and Simon Driver (main characters)??
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- Jim Ward - USA
It will be 26 years this August since you wrote "Educating
Rita". The film's casting agents could not have chosen a
better pair of actors for the leading roles then Michael Caine
and Julie Walters. The time has now arrived to finish the story
while Julie and Michael are still alive. If you recall, Dr. Frank
Bryant (Michael Caine) left for Australia at the end of the story
and Rita, aka, Susan, passed her finals with distinction. Would
it not be interesting to see where their lives have led them?
It is not often to see the same actors play the same roles 26
years apart. In fact, I am not sure if it has ever been done.
Rita could have gone on to be a distinguished
decision maker and major player in the same University she received
her education from. Perhaps she could have rekindled a relationship
with Frank after he permanently sobered up. There are endless
possibilities that could happen in a time span of 26 years. No
matter how you view it, "Educating Rita" is a memorable
story that needs to be finished by those who created
the characters and understand their personalities. I am sure
it would be a sure winner.
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- Eddie Milton - UK
Hi, Can you tell me
if a video or DVD is available of Blood Brothers being performed.
Was it ever made as a play for TV? I need a version on video
/ DVD for my daughter to study and can only find scripts and
the book; she would dearly like to study the play being peformed.
Many thanks
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- Joyce Blake - UK
I just cannot understand
why this brilliant film is not available on DVD,. Are there any
plans for its release ?
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- John Alexgers - Northern
Ireland
I saw Blood Brothers
in belfast on the 4th june and it was amazing this is my 4th
time seeing the show and im going again next friday 15th june
Linda Nolan is just amazing in the role of Mrs J ..evey time
i see this show i cant help but cry ..well done willy russell
for writing such a great musical.
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- Ellie Sewell - Vancouver
I saw Blood Brothers
four times whilst living in the UK, I now live in Vancouver and
saw a semi professional production given by the Deep Cove players..
all the cast were Canadians and it was excellent. Its a play
that never dates and will be with us for many many years.
Which other playwright could write a song with the lines ending
'Like Marylin Monro'...brilliant.
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- Hilary Mackelden - UK
I doubt you will remember,
but a few years ago, I was a student on one of the play and screenplay
courses you ran with Tim Firth at Arvon. I wanted to write a
play about my son, who has Prader Willi Syndrome. You both spent
a long time talking with me, advising me and helping me, over
and above the call of duty. I would just like to tell you, the
play was written, eventually, and it won an award. Thank you
for the help, encouragement and advice you so generously gave.
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- Steve Williams - Liverpool
Having read most of
the correspondence in the guestbook I thought that the readers
might like to know something about the time that we all descended
upon Broughton Street in Edinburgh in the summer of 1972. I think
the best way to remember this is in 'flash back' and really,
it’s knowing where to start. There are so many things I
could write. I first met Willy at St. Kath's College in Liverpool
when we were both students together, and I am sure that if any
of our friends from that time read this they could also tell
their story. The fact that Willy had planned to take a theatre
company from college to Edinburgh was not only an exciting prospect,
but also in some cases at least for me one of nervous anticipation.
I was in the art and design department of the college and had
got involved in the drama department to help with the set designs
and props for some of their productions. It was certainly a very
creative place to be, and then Willy said he wanted to go to
Edinburgh we had months of preparation and rehearsals. Not all
of the rehearsals were in the college I remember on a number
of occasions we used a church hall in Widnes where my father
was the vicar. I had the job of set designing and also designed
and hand printed (using silk screen) a large number of the posters
and T shirts that we would take with us. The designing of the
sets was a real challenge because they had to be made transportable.
I asked Willy last year if there were any posters of 'Blind Scouse'
left but unfortunately as is often the case they will have been
lost for ever, I didn't even keep the original artwork although
I can remember what the design looked like. I do however have
a photograph of two members of the company Ian and Ray wearing
the T shirts although the clarity is not what it might be. Willy's
creativity and drive was what made the weeks we spent in Edinburgh
possible, I remember the sweat and anxiety of hoping that the
audiences would arrive and they did. There were three shows a
day with time off on Sunday. Of course all that happened is clouded
by time and there may be other members of 'Cateysaints' theatre
company who could add their memories and maybe correct some of
mine. I could go on about our times together, the Folk Club in
Runcorn, the days we spent talking about our hopes and dreams.
All I know is that Willy was and still is one of the most talented,
generous and loving people I have met and have the good fortune
to call my friend. Willy and Annie make a really good team and
as far as my memory serves me they always did. Their generosity
and help in providing me with a roof over my head when I was
looking for somewhere to stay while on teaching practice cannot
be praised enough. Willy is very encouraging and supportive of
young talent and gives his time and energy in helping and encouraging
those that he sees have the talent and drive to succeed. There
are many other memories and things I could say but it would not
be right of me to take up too much space. If there is anyone
reading this who also remembers the times we had together in
Edinburgh why not write it down even if it is to correct some
of my fading memories. Thanks for taking the time to read this.
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- Holz and Sez - UK
Heya its holz and sarah
ere we love the book it was brill init bruv luv ya willy. x x
x x x x
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- Shailen Patel - UK
Our Day Out is a brilliant
story and I really enjoyed it was mind blowing and everyone in
my class enjoyed it as everyone read it and now we have to write
a nice essay. Nice one Willy Russell.
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- Lisa Ford - Manchester
What can i say!!. Blood
Brothers is absolutely, totally unbelievable and i just don't
know what to say. (Please read on!!). I am originally from the
north west and have relocated back, after eighteen years in London
and Oxford and have seen almost every theatre production. This
show is the greatest on earth and once you've seen it, you will
be spoilt for ever more. I love Phantom etc. but they are totally
different!! Watching, "Blood Brothers", in Manchester
for the first time in the north, it was superbe to see a really
younger audience, who at first was excited and then, " SILENCE".
All I can say, once quoted in the, "Evening Standard",
years ago, "If you have to steal a staff members uniform....".
Totally brilliant and thank you Willy Russell.
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- Tracy Watters - UK
Along with MANY others,
I thought I would just add my request for Dancin Thru the Dark
DVD to be released and also to re-release CD of the soundtrack.
I have found "copies" on many websites being sold for
high prices! It is an all time classic film and my recording
of it on video is now in a very sorry state!! Any chance whatsoever
it will be released, there seems to be a big fanbase out there
for it?
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- Lesley Jeavons - UK
What a fantastic surprise
and great read that email (The Latest Newsletter) was!!! Thank
you for keeping us up to speed on Willy's work and the progress
of all anticipated projects. So much to look forward to... :-)
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- Leah Green - UK
heyy. i saw blood brothers
in london last night on a school trip and it was AMAZING, i wanted
my parents and grandad to see it and i was just wondering if
the same cast will be the ones performing in manchester???? because
they were amazing and i dont want to see different people haha
no i dont mind i was just wondering... =]]]] xx
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- Eileen Rowntree - UK
I'm about to start
teaching Blood Brothers, for me, an all time favourite, for the
first time to a very low ability group of boys. Would there be
a copy of a DVD that they could watch to help them understand
the script. Look forward to your response in anticipation.
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- Jordan Branthwaite - UK
hi there i wanted to
know if the rights to blood brothers were available and how id
be able to get them if you have any information i would be very
greatfull. thanks
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- Glenn Bowen - UK
Hi I am writing on
behalf of an amateur theatre company in South Wales we are all
big fans of Blood Brothers the Musical and would love to perform
it at our local theatre in Treorchy in the Rhondda Valley. Next
year is our 60th anniversary so we are looking for something
special to perform to wow the audience and Blood Brothers would
be great. Are there any plans to allow amateur groups to perform
Blood Brothers the Musical?
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- Gregory Smethurst - UK
Hello my name is Abbey
Smethurst and i am 15 years old. I have seen your musical BLOOD
BROTHERS 3 times already and i absolutly LOVED it. I thought
it was amazing. I cant wait to see it again i think all the songs
are great and I know all the words to them!!! I dont really have
a favourite character I liked them all but i thought that Ediie
and Mickey were the best but i couldnt just choos!!! I wish it
would come out on DVD or video I would watch it over and over
again!! I have watched a lot of musicals and this one has to
be my favourite by far! Thankyou for writing such a great musical
i cant wait to see it again!!!!!
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- Daniel Glover - UK
hey man...my name is
Daniel Glover and im 15, to be honest with you i only ever heard
about you through BLOOD BROTHERS and i gotta say, its the best
musical iv ever seen, iv been to see it once and the way all
of the songs and charactors stuck in my mind was amazing. id
love to play micky because of the way he acts like a kid at the
begining and i act like that all the time. id love to do that
play at my school but unfortuantly we cant get hold of the rights
or something. Micky is by far my favorite charactor and the best
song has got to be 'shoes upon a table'...although 'tell me its
not true' apsalutly broke my heart.... i really cant get over
how good Blood Brothers is, i mean my favorite musical has always
been Grease, which im starring in at school this year. i never
thought that there would be a better musical then Grease but
Blood Brothers beat it by miles. you sir have done a grand job
on Blood Brothers, and i want to see it again. i think we might
go and see it in skegness. so we can stay over. i cant wait.
Thanks
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- Terry Corrigan - Manchester
Hi Willy, you won't
remember me but I attended Lumb Bank in about 1980, where you
and Carol Anne Duffy were running a five day residential workshop.
You were actually still writing Blood Brothers (on A4.foolscap)!
It was an amazing time for me. In the evenings, you got your
guitar out and we actually jammed together. Obviously nobody
believes this when I tell them but it is as true as it is surreal.
Thanks to your teaching, I have since written for TV and have
had my first stage play optioned for next year by a local theatre.
Keep scribbling Willie, you'll get there in the end mate!
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- James Parlour - UK
Hello Mr Russell, Just
a brief note of thanks for "The Wrong Boy" which is
top of my best reads for 2005-2006. Obviously, I came upon this
gem very late, but have since enjoyed reading it-twice. Being
semi-retired I am fortunate to be able to read a great deal so
do have a wide range of books- 100 over the past 2 years-against
which to judge your work. I recommended your book to my daughter
in Calgary and it has since become a "must" read for
an expanding range of reading groups and literary circles in
this city. When can we expect another book?
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- Cyrus Lane - Canada
Dear Willy Russell,
My name's Cyrus Lane. I'm playing Mickey at Theatre Aquarius,
a professional theatre in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. The director's
name is Michael Shamata. He's very good and giving us loads of
room to breathe and go through it. It's great. Today we staged
from Mickey and Eddie fighting when Eddie returns for christmas
right to Linda visiting Mickey in prison. It was a great day.
We all left feeling a little gutted and raw, but happy because,
as actors, those are the days you hope for. 'Blood Brothers'
is a joy to perform. If you ever read this, thanks. Thanks for
writing roles that actors can bring their hearts to. Thanks for
Mickey and Eddie and the Mums. We're all feeling lucky to be
in your play.
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- Thomas Major - UK
hi willy wat up bro!!!!
guess wat im yr biggest fan plz can i have a autograph coz my
friend callled toma is like my biggest fan love from tomo
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- Danny Yannad - UK
I have just finished
reading the Wrong Boy...Absolutely fantastic! Funny! Moving!
Just damn good! I Absolutely love Hoovering The Moon...what a
great voice and fantastic lyrics. Dear Mr Russell...MORE PLEASE!
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- Vikki Curd - UK
My name is Vikki Curd,
I am 16 years old and am from England. I would first of all like
to say how much I loved Willy's play 'Blood Brothers' I went
to see it twice. I have seen a lot of performances and want to
go onto doing it myself in the future and I loved Blood Brothers
the most. I studied it at school and performed a few clipits
from the play. I would absolutely love if
Blood Brothers was put on DVD so I could watch it over and over
again and let everyone I know about it, as I have heard that
is isn't going to be on in theatres for much longer which I was
very dissapointed to hear. I'm sure it would be sold as well
as musicals such as Oliver, Sound of Music and Annie. I haven't
watched any of Willy's other performances, but seeing this
one has made me sure that they are also brilliant and want to
watch them also. I would like to repeat that I really want Blood
Brothers put on DVD as I have looked for it everywhere but can't
get hold of it so I can enjoy watching it at home! I would be
really grateful if you did whatever possible to get it recorded
at the Pheonix theatre in London or another brilliant
theatre! Thank you for your time. Yours sincerely
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- John Hayward - UK
My wife and I are currently
listening to the serialisation of 'The Wrong Boy' on Oneword.
We are absolutely glued to the radio and are not getting up at
our usual time but waiting under the duvet for our daily 'fix'.
Willy's reading is absolutely stunning and the subject matter
is so close to our hearts having both just retired from teaching.
I agree with one of the previous posts, that this should be required
listening for all in education. A good kid told explicitly and
implicitly that he is bad going into a downward spiral, is a
story that is repeated again and again in our schools, although
they are a lot more caring than they used to be. We've just got
to the part after he is dredged out of the canal and he unburdens
himself for the first time to someone who is prepared to listen
and not pass judgements. We cheered with relief! Well, it's back
under the duvet for the next episode. Can't wait!
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- Angela Lowther - UK
Would love to be able
to buy a copy of Dancing Thru the Dark on DVD please let me know
if it will be released anytime soon
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- Sue Harnden - Southampton
Please please please
beg beg Dancin Thru the dark is absolutely brilliant why is it
not released on DVD?
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- George Smith - Canada
I was brought up in
Liverpool, in Wavertree to be precise, and of course just love
the work of Willy Russell. I now live in Southern Ontario. I
came to Canada in 1957 after 26 years in Liverpool. I can honestly
say that I have never heard the expression "Chips and Egg!"
as uttered by Shirley. I have been involved in Community Theatre
here for thirty years. When I tried to explain to one of our
actresses who was playing Shirley that the expression should
be "Egg and Chips", she turned around and gave me a
kick in the fanlight while pushing a script into my gob. Yes
she was right because that is the way that Willy had written
it! I pointed out that this was the Merseyside National Dish
and could not be tampered with. My enviable reputation as an
authentic Scouser has been compromised through this seemingly
unimportant episode. In my pursuit of theatrical edification,
would someone please explain this discrepancy to me. I have tried
to justify it as dramatic, poetic, or even rhythmic licence even
as inebriation, but plural before singular?.....yuk! Only Mickey
Drippin', or some other doodleally would let this pass unchallenged.
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- Pam Cosford-Morris - UK
Dear Willy Russell,
Just had to write and tell you that the amateur dramatics group
I am in, "The Phoenix Players," have just finished
performing, "Breezeblock Park." I played Vera and I
wanted you to know that it was one of the most pleasant and rewarding
experiences of my life. The line, "Something's upset you
hasn't it Betty" got the biggest laugh of the night which
did my ego no end of good! I will remember Vera forever with
a great deal of love and affection.
Thank you for writing this play and giving me and the other members
of the cast the chance to act in such a brilliant, well written
piece. Keep up the good work. All good wishes,
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- Karen Furminger - UK
Like quite a few other's
here, I've just spent a wasted morning looking everywhere on
the net for a DVD copy of the excellent Dancin' Thru The Dark.
I've seen plenty of VHS versions for sale but that format is
no longer viable for me as I've moved on from magnetic tape.
Could Mr Russell see fit to release a DVD version, if only to
placate my wife who is currently demanding that I buy the video
and a player to play it on?
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- Daniella Honey - UK
Your play our day out
is a hit in our school. Keep up the good work !!
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- Kirsty Sim - Worthing
Dear Mr Russell. This
is on behalf of Chichester college’s Drama class. We have
been studying your play “blood brothers” I have been
on all your web pages and this is the only one where I can really
relate to this film, I would be most grateful if you would come
to Chichester college to help our class to work with “blood
brothers” and it would be great to meet you! In person not
through pictures or films please reply to this email many thanks
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- John Bennett - Kiama, NSW,
Australia
Mr Russell, your WRONG
BOY'S should be compulsery reading in ANY school in the UK and
when they're ready for it, in the USA. One of the best reads
in my 50 years of reading great books and plays. And I've said
nothing of your superb plays. You are a literary treasure to
the World. Joy and good health always.
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- Ian Wilkes - UK
Hello! I am a massive
fan of Blood Brothers and Educating Rita. I have been to see
Blood Brothers, and thought that it was absolutely amazing -
It Made Me Cry! I Hope to go see it again some time soon. At
the monent - I am in year 11 and studying the play in Drama,
and i love it. Educating Rita is such a good story!!! At the
moment i can't put it down.. Keep Up the good work! OH - Can't
wait for this rumoured 'Blood Brothers Movie'.
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- Avis Davies- Chester
I thought I read somewhere
that the Wrong Boy was to be made into a TV series? Have I imagined
this or is it just wishful thinking!
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- Victoria Cokeley - UK
Hello , I saw Blood
Brothers when I was in school infact it was a theatre trip organised
by my school at the time, Cefn Saeson (wales).Following that
my mother taped Dancin thru the Dark off the television ,because
as she put it ,if its Willy Russell its bound to be good and
it was, infact it was excellent ,It would be wonderful to be
able to watch that again.
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- Andrew Rhodes - UK
Please could you relese
both the soundtrack and DVD version of Dancing thru the dark.
This was shown on tv the weekend before I left for university
and left me with so many memories.
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- Dawn - UK
Dancin Thru The Dark
is the best film i have ever seen i loved it and would love to
see it come out on dvd and would love it if you would bring the
soundtrack out on cd again as i lost mine when i moved house
please please bring them both out again i would love to have
them both for christmas 2006 it would be a big shame not to see
it out on dvd so i beg you to please please bring it out on dvd
and bring out the soundtrckat the same time. kind regards
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- Steve Tealey - UK
I feel the same way
as Maria Smith. Dancin thru the dark should be released on dvd
what a great film and the soundtrack is just as great and should
be released on cd as well every one who has seen the film and
loved it would love to see it out on dvd now so please please
get it out on on dvd a.s.a.p i would love to get a cope of it
on dvd for Christmas. kind regards
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- Maria Smith - UK
Please, please, please
release a copy of Dancin Thru The Dark on DVD. I've searched
everywhere and can only get a copy on VHS, which is no longer
useful to me. I note that some of the Americans can get it on
DVD but not on the UK Format. This is a really great film, with
the same kind of humour and down to earth feeling as Shirley
Valentine. It's brilliant, so is the soundtrack and so is Con
O'Neill. Christmas is not far away now. Come on, give us something
good to buy. It would seem from looking at lots of different
websites, that I am not the only one requesting this. I look
forward to a positive response. Kind regards
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- Aaron Jones - UK
Hi i am currently studying
blood brothers in my drama lesson in school and just finished
reading educating rita for the 3rd time and i would just like
to say that what an honour it was to read educating rita and
to see blood brothers in the west end they are both amazing keep
up the good work
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- Rob - Liverpool
Does Willy read these
?oh well here goes, I remember when I was about 12 watching ,play
for today about farm workers and I remember a shot gun was integral
in the story , the next day 3 of us visited a house in Prescot
with our teacher Mrs Melia, the house was a small terrace corner
house with a back shed with pigeons in the back, lets cut to
the quick it was Willy's mum and dad , when they asked me my
name (Russell ) they said , "oh our name is Russell, Willie
will be in in half hour come in and have a chat and wait ".
I have followed his career ever since.
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- Kath - Melbourne, Australia
I wish Willy Russell
had been my English teacher. I've read The Wrong Boy many times
and each time find something more fascinating and extraordinary
about it. What a gift to be able to pen a novel like this! My
favourite read of all time!
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- Ann Physick - Liverpool
Hi. Willie Russel was
my English teacher when I was 13. he was teaching at Shorefields
Comprehensive, Dingle, Liverpool 8 in 1973. At this time he was
writing his play for the Everyman theatre, John, Paul, George,
Ringo and Bert. He was a fantastic teacher and used to read pieces
out to the class and ask our opinion. No one ever asked our opinion,
we thought we were great. His friend Alan Bleasdale also came
into school and he would read Scully to us.
- Looking back now it was amazing.
He always stressed the importance of education, but us as divvies
never quite understood. Years later I met him and told him I
was a mature student, like he was, and was at university doing
a history degree. He was very encouraging and was “ made
up” that I was at uni. A great teacher and writer.
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- Martina McCann - Dublin
I'm a huge fan of dancing
thru the dark, I'II never forget the day I came accross the Video
in WH Smiths in Hounslow while on holidays - 1990!!!, from that
day to this, I have searched everywhere for the Soundtrack! Don't
suppose anybody knows where I could get my hands on the Soundtrack??
Thanks, Martina
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- Lesley Jeavons - UK
I have just finished
reading The Wrong Boy and am overcome! I adore you as a playwrite
and now I can say I adore you as an author too! And then I come
in here and find that Blood Brothers may be made in to a film?!
Well knock me down with a flying doughnut - I'm made up! I'm
trying not to get too excited, I know that the amount of things
in preproduction that never reach fruition is vast, but ooooooooooooohhhhhhhhh!!!
No writer moves me in the way you do - I've always thought you
write the parts of women and children exceptionally well, but
you have brought The Wrong Boy to life too! You are a genius
- Raymond was wrong to love Morrissey so, he should have directed
his adoration at you! :-) Best wishes. PS reading TWB at the
same time as having Morrissey's fantastic new album made it all
the more delightful and real! "Life is a pigsty" indeed!
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- Lynne Hill - Wiltshire
This whole story [previous
Guestbook entries] seems to be about Blood Brothers. But what
about EDUCATING RITA. Brilliant script, sparkling wit. Willy
Russell is an absolute diamond! Long may he shine.
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- John Walsh - Liverpool
I played the guitar
and my friend Eddie Hughes played banjo in the film Dancin Thu
the Dark. We had a great time recording the tracks for the song
Mountains of Mourne and the banjo tune Masons Apron in Radio
Merseyside and then appearing as the Irish band in the scene.
We are still playing the pubs of Merseyside and including both
pieces in our act, however I too like many of you have not been
able to pick up a copy of the film and would like a copy for
posterity.
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- Julie Arnold - Rainford
Hi, Im Julie from Rainford
- belive you know the place ;) I have been a big fan of Blood
Brothers for most of my adult life, knew all the songs and words
via an audio cassette, it wasnt till i watched the show at the
Liverpool Empire that I realised the story behind it all. WOW!
I love it, if only i could buy it on DVD.
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- Sandra Hart - UK
hi ther i'm researching
your life for my english project and i think you are amazing
keep up the good work
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- Paul Andrew House - Minneapolis
I am a playwright and
an actor from Milton Keynes, England. I recently moved to Minneapolis,
USA and am pursing a career in the theatre. I have directed Stags
and Hens and played Eddie in Blood Brothers, I love Russell's
work and i hope I get the opportunity to work on one of his plays
in the future. I have seen Blood Brothers about five times and
was so impressed by the West End production that I embarked on
my own musical theatre project inspired by Willy Russell (Good
For Today). He is a hero and I hope I get to meet him one day.
My own project is in it's forth year now and soon I hope to be
looking for producers and managers to represent the musical.
Thank you Willy Russell for being such a huge influence on my
own practice as a playwright.
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- Lara Bugeja - Malta
Hi there! Just wanted
to tell u to keep up this site and congratulations to Mr Willy
Russell on his amazing first novel ‘the wrong boy’.
It’s absolutely amazing, I loved it! Cheers.
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- Susan Hillyer - Buenos
Aires
Willy is brilliant.
I'm a Scouser and I've acted as Rita and Shirley here in Buenos
Aires. I've seen Shirley in Spanish too, although I rather felt
it lacked the Scouse resonances! I'm just doing a presentation
for 200 teachers in Tucuman ( North Argentina) entitled Let's
Live Liverpool Literature where I tell about Willy Russell's
talents and we read an extract from Shirley, among other things
like sea shanties and a few Beatles songs. The national training
college has " Educating Rita" on its compulsory reading
list. Willy Russell is well loved here, even though we are far
away!
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- Deric Metzger - UK
I performed as Sammy
in a production of Blood Brothers back in 2002. At the time I
was a professional actor, and that production, due to personal,
and career changes in my life, remains one of the most fulfilling,
introspective, meaningful productions of my life. Thank you for
bringing it to the world Willy.
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- H Johnson - Hemel Hempstead
'Dancin Thru the Dark'
is the TV film of 'Stags & Hens'. If you haven't got a copy
of this, get it; it's available as part of a 3 play book along
with (I think) Educating Rita and Blood Brothers. Also the play
'One for the Road' is fantastic, I think that's in with Shirley
Valentine. All fabulous... The man's a genius.
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- Kerry - Southport
Hi. Dancin Thru the
Dark - Cracking film. Searching through my old video's and found
my copy. Watched again and again for nostalgia. (It makes me
feel young again) As this was a popular film, can we get it released
on DVD? If anyone starts a campaign to get this released, then
please put my name down. RELEASE IT ON DVD. PLEEEEEEAAAAASSSSSSSEEEE.
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- Pat Kahn - Argentina
My name is Pat Kahn,
I am an English teacher in Patagonia, Argentina.I am desperately
looking for the musical John, Paul, George, Ringo & Bert
to perform at school concert. Please, let me know how, where
I can get the script, video, whatever. Thanks !!!!
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- Jessica - UK
hi, my name is jessica
and im an a level student studying drama biology and chemistry
for my exam performance i choose blood brothers. i have always
loved this play its exciting to watch on the big stage it keeps
u on the edge of ur seat it involves the audience its a great
play like i said. i played the part of michael johnstone i did
find this role rather challenging so i had to commit all my heart
and soul, my drive and passion into becoming michael johnstone
on stage and i got an a yeaaaaa.
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- Elvi Birgit - Hamburg
Hi, my name is elvi.
I'm from Hamburg. In school I have to read 'Shirley Valentine'
at the moment. Afterwards I have to answer a question my teacher
has already given to me. She asked me whether 'Shirley Valentine'
is a novel dealing with the topics of gender and class or treats
universal themes. I do not really know whether I am right but
I suppose it deals with universal themes!? Perhaps somebody has
a good idea on this topic? thanks. P.S.: I liked the book a lot:-)
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- Chris Rafferty - Bootle
Can anyone tell me
if willy wrote a play about a kid from a Merseyside council estate
getting shot and killed on a farm. I think the play was part
of the bbc play for today series. Cheerr.
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- Laura Monteith - Bournemouth
I went to see Blood
Brothers for the 3rd time last night, and I was still in love
with everything about it, I love musicals, but this one I could
go and see again and again, and although I know the song words
in the accent, there are still the bits I miss. The best thing
about it last night was that Stephen Palfreman was still Mickey,
that’s every time I have been to see it, and I must say
I think because he puts absolutely everything into it, he is
absolutely fantastic. Especially when he sings “Long Sunday
Afternoon”, you really feel his loneliness. By the time
that Mickey goes to jail I am in bits! He is just amazing. Also,
seeing Linda Nolan back on stage again was wonderful. I saw her
in London with Stephen on my 21st birthday (3-4 years ago), and
I am really pleased that she is well enough to tour again, Fantastic
news, not only for her, but her family and all her fans. Where
would we be without Linda? “Easy Terms” and “Tell
me its not true” and the end songs about Mickey and Linda
are fantastic, and they just make me go to bits too. I think
Linda plays Mrs Johnston with real emotion and she is wonderful.
Obviously, I think that Blood Brothers is fantastic, and its
the best musical I have ever seen. Well done to all the cast,
and thanks Willy for writing such a fantastic play and making
it into a musical.
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- Victoria Parker - North
Wales
My name is Victoria
Parker. I went to see Blood Brothers at the North Wales Theatre
in Llandudno, and as I stood up to applaud the cast, I knew I
wanted to write a play that made people FEEL. Willy Russell has
changed my goals and given me courage. Thank you Willy.
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- Manon Desjardins - Montreal
I saw "Frères
de Sang", (BLOOD BROTHERS ) today in Montreal. It was the
first time I heard about Willy Russell. I am very impress. I
just want to know more about this author now. Thank you.
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- Patsy Fryer - Hayes
I have been doing a
Willy Russell project at school and i thought it will be really
boring. When i visited his site, i wish we could do more about
his life and abilities.
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- Janis Farrell and friends
- Wigan
We went to see the
show on wednesday evening and we could have watched it over again
the whole cast were suberb in the acting, dancing and singing.
It was funny, a bit scarey and sad but most of all an excellent
and enjoyable evenings entertainment. Compliments to the young
gentleman who did an excellent job doing the sign language. Once
again thank you Willy Russell all the cast and and everyone who
helped to make this a great evenings entertainment. cheers
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- Brian Martin - Crewe
Hi , Just want to add
to the many tributes to Willy Russell and say that in my opinion
"Blood Brothers" is one of the best musicals I have
had the pleasure to see!
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- Tracey Farley - Wales
My name is Emily and
I'm 12. I live in Wales. I went to see Blood Brothers for the
first time in Cardiff in March (FRONT ROW SEATS !!!) and I am
wondering when is the show going to be made in to a film? Mickey
is my favourite character, but Lynn Paul is good too.
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- Michael Williams - Liverpool
i have just recently
seen blood brothers in the liverpool empire and would just like
to say how great it was. i had never been to the theatre before
that now i want to go all the time. it was amazing. funny, sad,
scary!!! the music was fantasic as well! and all the performers
were great. i would recomend anybody to see this show!!!
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- Merenna - Hereford
been to see blood brothers
in cardiff march 2006 absolutely fantastic will russell is a
pure genius. i loved his plays at school with a taste of willy
found in our day out. stags and hens fantastic, just want dancin'
thru the dark on dvd now. if you not a convert you should be.
see a show and you'll know why. happy in hereford xx
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- Anna Mullins - Hampshire
Hiya, I've just been
playing in the band for a production of "Our Day Out"at
my school and I think it was the best production our school's
ever done. It works so well and has space for performers to try
on accents (which most did, even though we're in Hampshire and
no-one had a liverpool accent) and develop new skills like freeze
frames and improvising. Has anyone
else come across the musical version, that's what we did and
the music's great but I can't find sheet music or clips of it
anywhere on the net.
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