Though many critics were unkind, audiences flocked to the 1993 Broadway musical Blood Brothers, a tragic tale of fraternal twins separated at birth and coming to a mutually disastrous end, despite being raised in different places and classes. Willy Russell wrote the book, music and lyrics for the show, which won the 1983 Olivier Award for Best Musical. The show was revived in London in 1988 and still plays at the Phoenix Theatre there.

Songs in the show include "My Child," "Shoes Upon The Table," "I'm Not Saying A Word" and "Marilyn Monroe."

At the Walnut, Blood Brothers opens May 12 after starting previews May 5. British director Bob Carlton, who previously brought Lust to Walnut Street, will stage the production. Starring are Susan Dawn Carson, Mary Martello, Tif Luckinbill, Christopher Sutton, Bob McCormik, Terrance Flynn, Jennifer Lee Andrews and Dan Schiff.

Designing the show are F. Mitchell Dana (lighting), Rodney Ford (set & costumes) and Scott Smith (sound).

Other plays by Russell include the hit comedies Educating Rita and Shirley Valentine. For tickets ($8-$45) and information on Blood Brothers at the Walnut Street Theatre in Philadelphia through June 21 call (215) 925-6885.

-- By David Lefkowitz