Book, Music & Lyrics by Jim Steinman, this rock spectacular crowd pleaser directed by Jay Scheib, roars into the Sheffield Lyceum with a pulsating bass line and a sound quality that hits the heights at every perceivable moment. It could be said that this show is a hybrid – part Musical Theatre experience and part Rock concert – this new reimagined version of Bat Out of Hell feels to be moving more towards the latter, as the music is the unquestioned star of the show. Much of the dialogue has been removed from its initial conception and now only sporadically links Jim Steinman’s extensive back catalogue to form a convoluted storyline that is ‘undefined’ to say the least. But that said it doesn’t seem to matter… we can vaguely follow the plot – a cross between Peter Pan and Romeo and Juliet through the eyes of mainly Meatloaf’s hits. Yes, it’s crazy and yes, it’s all a bit choppy but it is one hell of a rocking ride!
I have seen this musical several times in its different versions and was interested as to how the impressive visuals of the massive Dominion Theatre would translate into a touring version. Obviously spoiled after witnessing the exploding bike at the end of the First Act in London, this version relied on the throwing of shimmer/glitter confetti but again…it really didn’t matter…the musical performances where front and foremost and needed no visual tricks at all! The use of live video screening takes a back seat from earlier productions, and I would question if it was really needed now at all. The bold set by Jon Bausor consists of the underground subway tunnels in the Lost’s domain (mystifyingly underused as an entrance and exit at times), gone is the Perspex multi-tiered house of Falco Towers, now replaced by Raven’s bedroom, making the set much more inclusive for the audience. Whilst the choreography suffers at times with space issues it allows for the most welcoming addition putting the eight-piece live band; supervised by Michael Reed; deservedly up and foremost on stage throughout – adding to the Rock concert feel. Gareth Owen’s sound design is superb, and the new use of handheld microphones works superbly to inject a ‘Gig’ feel. The sound quality was the best I have ever heard at the Lyceum Theatre and every pulsating bass line was felt, but didn’t once over power the vocal clarity, a massive well done Robert Brennan, Nick Jarvest and Sam Parkinson on Sound 1,2&3. Patrick Woodroffe’s lighting design is dark and ominous and works well with the post-apocalyptic futuristic feel of Obsidian (Manhatten) as does Jon Bausor’s costume design.
The cast are a collective powerhouse of rock, and it is in the ensemble numbers we realise why such a large cast are at times crammed onto such a small touring stage. The sound they create is phenomenal and everyone plays their part fully. Glenn Adamson as Strat the Lost’s ‘Peter Pan’ leader is exceptional in role, he has depth, a touch of madness, sex appeal and a rock voice to rival the very best. Joined by Katie Tonkinson as Raven whose vocals are sensational, the pair deliver powerhouse vocal after powerhouse vocal. Zahara was played on the evening I saw the show by understudy Beth Woodcock and her duet of Two Outta Three Ain’t Bad with Ryan Carter as Jagwire was the highlight of the evening for me. Woodcock’s glorious vocals and Carter’s soul voice added a special something to the number. I must mention Luke Street as Ledoux who really impressed me whenever he sang – stunning voice! Tink played well by Carla Bertan is a well-rounded character and does much to solidify the storyline. Robert Fowler’s Falco and Sharon Sexton’s Sloane (Raven’s parents) continue to retain the magic in role that they created at the show’s conception. With the comedic elements in the production given to them as a pair, they excel at every turn. Paradise behind the Dashboard Light is a show stopping number in every sense. Sexton and Falco are masters of the Rock Ballad and leave the audience stunned by their delivery.
Bat Out of Hell is at the Sheffield Lyceum until Saturday 3rd May. Ok, so it’s a little bonkers – it’s neither a Rock Concert nor Musical Theatre but it is well worth experiencing and Two Outta Three Ain’t Bad! If you are a Rock Fan – this is one not to be missed. If you want to see powerhouse vocal performances and a stunning and pulsating band – this is one not to be missed and if you need a few hours of escape from reality and a trip down memory lane, then book tickets, you won’t regret it.
Reviewer: Tracey Bell
Reviewed: 28th April 2025
North West End UK Rating: