Blood Brothers Act 1

What does the narrator tell us about the events of the play in his opening speech? Select all relevant answers.

• The play centres around twin brothers.

• The twins don't like each other.

• One twin was kept and the other given away.

• The mother never wanted to give up her son.

Russell uses Marilyn Monroe as a symbol who he compares Mrs J to. Who was she?

• A famous American singer.

• A playwright who worked with Russell.

• The first actress to play Mrs J on stage.

• A movie star icon of the 1950s and 60s.

As Mrs J has more children and grows older, her husband walks out on her. This meant that she became a --------------- --------------------, which was viewed very negatively by society at the time.

(a)  

What evidence is there in Act 1 that Mrs Johnstone is of the working class? select all relevant answers.

• She can't afford to pay the milkman.

• There is no food in the house for the children.

• She can't buy the dress she wants.

• She is living on the streets.

• She has a job as a cleaner.

Who is Mrs Johnston to Mrs Lyons?

• Her best friend

• Her Auntie

• Her cleaner

• Her employer

Why does Mrs Lyons live in such a big house?

• Lots of family come to stay

• She was hoping to have children

• Her husband wants her to feel lonely

• She has lots of furniture to keep there

Which of the following superstitions ARE NOT mentioned in Act 1, Scene 3?

• New shoes on the table

• Spilled salt

• A cracked mirror

• Walking under a ladder

• A single magpie

In scene 4, Mrs Johnston says that "With one more baby we could have managed. But not with two. The Welfare's already been on to me. They say I'm incapable of controlling the kids I've already got". Who is the equivalent of 'The Welfare' in current times?

• Social Services

• The local council

• The Job Centre

• The NHS

In Act 1, Mrs Lyons convinces Mrs Johnston to give her one of her unborn twins. What does she promise her to persuade her this is a good idea? Select all relevant options.

• She will still be able to see him everyday

• He would have a good life

• He would go to a good school

• He would have lots of friends to play with

What does Mrs Lyons make Mrs Johnston swear on to keep her promise of giving up one of her sons?

(a)