IT MAY be a musical, but the drama and social message from famed playwright Willy Russell is no less hard-hitting.

His expert hand lightens the heavy issue of class war with comedy.

Stephen Palfreman and Craig Whiteley are outstanding as twins separated at birth.

Watching them grow from children to awkward teens and adults, one below the poverty line, the other with the silver spoon, is dark but captivating.

Most songs are uplifting and catchy, although not particularly memorable, and it was the clever irony and children's delightful small talk that stayed with me.

The seamless performance by Lyn Paul deserves a mention as she only stepped into the lead role when Linda Nolan pulled out due to illness.

Blood Brothers runs at Birmingham Hippodrome until October 21.