This is our review of Bat Out Of Hell at Liverpool‘s Empire Theatre. So, let’s take a look at Bat Out Of Hell!
Description Of Bat Out Of Hell
Produced by Michael Cohl, Tony Smith, and David Sonenberg, this award-winning musical features the majority of Meatloaf’s hits, albeit presented in a rather different style! We hear Dead Ringer For Love, Heaven Can Wait, Paradise By The Dashboard Light, and many others (19 in total). Songwriter Jim Steinman passed away in 2019 followed by the legendary Meatloaf in 2022.
So, this fitting tribute sustains their legacy, performed on a rainy evening to a very well-attended Empire Theatre audience. The show is overly energetic, raucous, and almost frenetic at times. There is some light and shade, but it could probably do with some more.
Analysis Of Bat Out Of Hell
There were some very, very accomplished vocalists in the cast. Furthermore, there were also many skilled dance moves and quick changes involved. I personally found the choreography a little off-putting. There was far too much jumping about, squatting, and hugging for me. The moves just didn’t seem to complement the soundtrack; it felt like ‘Cats’ meets a Led Zeppelin performance.
The set was very busy and dark. It included a real-time video recording of the show which appeared on a screen on the stage. Although interesting and unusual, again I found it detracted from the overall main performance. Additionally, the trademark Meatloaf chopper motorbike appeared to be pushed onto the stage accompanied by some loud revving noises which made me smile, rather than gasp in awe. There were a few decent special effects, confetti canons, and flame eruptions which picked things up a little.
Forever Young
The plot centres on The Lost, a group of forever 18-year-olds, who never grow old as a result of chemical warfare. Their hero leader is Strat played by LIPA-trained Glenn Adamson who falls in love with rock chick Raven played by Kellie Gnauck. Again, there were brilliant vocals from both actors. There was a bit of a Romeo and Juliet vibe going on. Raven’s parents Falco (Rob Fowler) and his wife Sloane (Sharon Sexton) give excellent performances. They’re consummate professionals who can certainly belt out a tune.
However, the stars of the show were the live orchestra/band. Special mention must go to the keyboard players and guitarists – absolutely amazing. It’s all about the music. Wonderful.
Summary Of Bat Out Of Hell
If you’re a fan of Steinman and Meatloaf, don’t miss this musical. There’s a lot of rocking and rolling with a show like this!
