Well, what a night. Even the interval had a highlight – a tiny black feather floating elegantly in my glass (Rocky Horror played last week and they’re still finding feathers everywhere...).

This week however is the turn of Willy Russell’s Blood Brothers, a show I first saw in Dublin during the eighties, wide-eyed and mesmerised.

Consequently, I was almost scared to see it again. But some things can be better second time around, and not only because of the benefits a quarter century of technical advancement brings.

First produced in 1983, it isn’t difficult to see why this harrowing tale, packed full of charm, continues to move audiences.

And what a cast too.

The role of narrator, played by Warwick Evans, is ingenious and has evolved so he not only relates the finer details of the plot but also interacts with the characters.

Maureen Nolan delivers the character of Mrs Johnstone beautifully.

Indeed, you could sense the entire theatre empathising with the dilemma forced upon her as a struggling mother forced to make a devastating decision. It was impossible to not be moved as she worked both the boards and the heart of her audience.

Sean Jones as Mickey is outstanding. He played a hilarious and believable seven (almost eight!) year-old as convincingly as his portrayal of a desperate and tragic young man.

Catch it – it’s a great night out for all.

But be warned. If you don't already know the story, keep it that way. The surprises are better.

BLOOD BROTHERS: New Theatre, Oxford, until Saturday. Box office 0844 8713020