After sell-out runs in Manchester, London, and Toronto, Jim Steinman’s Bat Out of Hell The Musical is back in the West End, and even more spectacular than the last time, and that’s saying something. It’s new home, The Dominion, which has been transformed to the dystopian Obsidian, is the natural fit for this sensational rock concert/musical hybrid.
There’s more of a plot than I remember from last time, but the mutant Peter Pan love story is merely a vehicle for those incredible musical numbers, made famous by Meatloaf, and performed by a cast bursting with energy.
As Strat, Andrew Polec is a Rockstar, he sounds and looks like he should be performing to sold out arena crowds as the frontman of a platinum selling band. Whether belting out classics like ‘Bat Out of Hell’ or caressing some of the more tender numbers; his entire performance is utterly electric.
But, as an audience we are doubly blessed, because performing right alongside the talented Andrew Polec, is the equally talented Christina Bennington as Raven. Giving one of the most beautiful renditions of ‘It’s All Coming Back To Me Now’ that I have ever heard.
Sloane (Sharon Sexton) and Falco (Rob Fowler) have the privilege of performing the iconic Paradise By The Dashboard Light (my favourite) and just like the rest of the show it’s a full on spectacle.
It’s a large cast and they give it their all, Daniele Steers (Zahara) and Giovanni Spano (Ledoux) give vocal performances which leave you in complete awe. The entire company deserve credit for an astonishingly display, supported by mesmerising choreography from Emma Portner.
The whole production is over the top exuberance, and looks stunningly cinematic. At most points there’s something happening in every corner of the vast stage, with elements broadcast live on a giant screen. Projections are used to great effect, especially in Raven’s bedroom scenes, which take on a hauntingly beautiful look.
Big, bold, and brash, Bat Out of Hell The Musical is an extraordinary experience, which has already earned itself a legion of loyal fans. Just like the first time round, incredible staging, and unbelievable, performances meant I left the theatre glowing (like the metal on the edge of a knife).
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