X Factor's Niki Evans to join Blood Brothers

Niki Evans, who came fourth in the TV series X Factor in 2007, is to join cast of Willy Russell's Blood Brothers, from 3 Nov 2008 at the Phoenix Theatre. She will play the part of 'Mrs Johnstone'.

Before her run in London, Niki Evans, will make her debut in Blood Brothers at the Birmingham Hippodrome Theatre for two weeks from 20th October. Marti Webb , who is currently playing the role of Mrs Johnstone on tour, has agreed to return to London to play at the Phoenix for the two weeks that Niki is in Birmingham. Marti then rejoins the tour of Blood Brothers on Monday 3rd November.

Blood Brothers is directed by Bob Tomson and Bill Kenwright. The design is by Marty Flood and the musical director is Rod Edwards.

Of all the “mega hit” long running musicals currently in the West End, Blood Brothers is unique in that this second incarnation opened at the Albery Theatre on 28th July 1988, after the original production had failed to score a West End success at the Lyric Theatre, three years previously in 1985.

Bill Kenwright picked up the rights to the musical in 1987, and a re-vamped Blood Brothers returned to the West End the following year. It was the first West End revival to be nominated for the Best Musical Revival Olivier Award within two years of winning the Original Best Musical production! It transferred from the Albery to the Phoenix four years later in 1991, where it remains today.

The story concerns a pair of twins from Liverpool who are separated at birth. Later in life their paths cross in friendship and anger.

Blood Brothers is currently taking bookings to 30 May 2009.