THE ever-popular Nolan sisters seem to have staked a claim to the role of Mrs Johnstone in Willy Russell’s Blood Brothers; this time it’s Maureen wringing every ounce of emotion out of the piece and doing a fine job.

Blood Brothers is the story of a jaunty lass who loves to go out dancing and marries a chap who makes a sharp exit when she announces her seventh pregnancy.

Mrs J is hard-pressed to keep her brood clothed and fed, and when she learns she’s expecting twins, she agrees in desperation to give one baby to her wealthy employer, who is childless.

The story unfolds under the dispassionate eye of the narrator, Robbie Scotcher in strong voice, and if you think you are suffering from the credit crunch, this might make you think again.

Adults playing children can be an uncomfortable business, but somehow the talented cast pulls it off.

Especially appealing is Sean Jones as urchin Mickey Johnstone, the twin Mrs J decides to keep. Daniel Taylor is also excellent as older brother Sammy, a loudmouthed bully with trouble written all over him. Simon Willmont as twin Edward, brought up as a toff, has a touching innocence and decency.

Blood Brothers is now in its 25th year and people return to see it again and again. I’ve seen it four times and I always have a tissue ready at the end, for the mother’s song Tell Me It’s Not True, passionately rendered by Maureen Nolan, who had her tearful audience on its feet.

■ The show is staged until Saturday, January 31. Tickets are £12 to £36, on 0844-811-2121.