Bat Out of Hell The Musical at Sheffield Lyceum Review

DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW

Reviewed by Joy Wright

Bat Out of Hell – The Musical at Sheffield Lyceum this week is a must-see. If you’re looking for a theatrical experience which fuses the raw energy of rock with the grandeur of musical theatre, this high energy production brings the timeless music of Jim Steinman and Meat Loaf to life in a visually stunning performance.

Back in 1968 Jim Steinman had written this show, a rock opera in essence, loosely based on the JM Barrie story of Peter Pan. Meat Loaf was intended to be part of this production originally but it couldn’t come to fruition until the 21st century, resting with Meat Loaf as a concept album rather than the stage show Steinman intended. All these years later fans of Jim Steinman and Meat Loaf are in for a treat.

The narrative unfolds in the dystopian city of Obsidian, where the immortal Strat, held locked in time forever at 18, falls in love with Raven – the only daughter of the tyrannical Falco. The Lost’s existence in the underground is at odds with Falco’s world and he’ll do anything to protect his daughter and rid the city of The Lost.

The musical features Steinman’s powerful compositions, including “I’d Do Anything for Love (But I Won’t Do That),” “Paradise by the Dashboard Light,” “Two Out of Three Ain’t Bad,” and the titular “Bat Out of Hell.”

The production boasts a talented cast, with Glenn Adamson as Strat delivering on the well known songs channelling Jim Morrison, Freddie Mercury and well as Meat Loaf. He’s high octane energy on stage bringing a rebellious Keith Flint/Ozzy Osborne vibe to the role between soulful ballads.

Sharon Sexton as Sloane and Rob Fowler as Falco really emulate Meat Loaf and his various female co-stars bringing fabulous vocal capacity to their roles and recognisable performances for the die-hard fans.

The story has been rewritten a little to bring it forward a somewhat and it’s a little under-developed in my opinion. As a retrospective jukebox musical the narrative frame could be a stronger but the well polished and powerful performances rescue the weak spots.

Additionally the choreography has a few moments in the first half which are incongruous with the overall production, though for the rest the ensemble create a fantastic vocal sound and visual spectacle.

Under the direction of Jay Scheib, the show is a visual feast, incorporating innovative set designs by Jon Bausor, dramatic lighting by Patrick Woodroffe, and a live eight-piece rock band which elevates the live musical experience.

Bausor’s set design is varied and functional, with multi-level platforms depicting various locales, from Raven’s bedroom to the underground lair of the Lost. The costumes take us back to the early rock era, post punk, pre-grunge, featuring leather, sparkles, and denim to capture the spirit of the characters. The integration of confetti cannons and pyrotechnics during key musical numbers adds a theatrical and rock show flavour, ensuring that the audience is fully immersed in the rock ‘n’ roll fantasy.

Bat Out Of Hell is more than just a tribute to Meat Loaf’s legendary album. It’s Steinman’s dream almost 50 years in the making. With its stellar cast and unforgettable songs, this will leave you exhilarated. Don’t miss the chance to experience this electrifying show.

Rating: 5/5

Tickets for Bat Out of Hell – The Musical at Sheffield Lyceum are available now until Saturday May 3rd , with prices ranging from £15.00 to £56.50. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the Sheffield Theatres website: www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk