This is our review of Bat Out Of Hell at Liverpool‘s Empire Theatre!
Synopsis Of Bat Out Of Hell
Meatloaf fans rejoice, Bat Out of Hell returns! In this rock-and-roll musical, a group of teenagers are frozen in time in a post-apocalyptic New York. When leader Strat and daughter of tyrannical landlord Raven fall in love, a Romeo and Juliet-style adventure begins. Starring Glenn Adamson as Strat, Katie Tonkinson as Raven, Rob Fowler as Falco, and Sharon Sexton as Sloane.
Analysis Of Bat Out Of Hell
What a wonderful blend of classic musical theatre and rock-and-roll! The live eight-piece band certainly owns the stage and has audiences toe-tapping from start to curtain call. Framed in the wondrous world of Lost, the visual and audio spectacle is just what a trip to the theatre is all about.
Glenn Adamson gives an energetic performance as Strat with booming vocals. He fills the stage, not only in presence but also from running across it. Yet despite his energy, there’s not a single warble in his voice. He’s a very talented musical theatre performer. Following this, the vocal performances from the whole cast are something to behold. From the starring roles to the ensemble, this cast is perfect for this musical and no one falls into the background.
The plot is quite confusing, mainly a jumble of different tropes (ie, Romeo and Juliet, Peter Pan, dystopian future) with no outstanding story other than Strat and Raven’s obsession with each other. One part that seemed out of place – despite having strong roots in the show’s history – is the video elements. A videographer follows actors across the stage to give a music video feel, but this becomes disjointed with such a crowded stage. Previous renditions of this musical have managed this more effectively, so I suspect this is just the current tour director’s vision for the production.
Summary Of Bat Out Of Hell
In closing, this is an enjoyable, energetic show with plenty of memorable songs for any rock and roll lover. Of course, if you’re going to the show for the music, you’ll get that and more, and the cast is fantastic. And the audience at press night were all on their feet to give a worthy standing ovation. It’s ideal if you’re a fan of Meatloaf, Jim Steinman, and rock and roll. (Or if you just need a pick me up this week). So, get yourself own to the Liverpool Empire before this show closes!
