Bristol Hippodrome – until 20th August 2022
Reviewed by Lucy Hitchcock
3***
Jim Steinman and Meatloaf’s classics have been transformed into a stage show, and it is a treat for everyone.
We follow the lives of Strat (Glenn Adamson) and Raven (Martha Kirby) as they fight to be together. Strat is a lost boy, frozen in time living in hiding whilst Raven is a teen Vogue model. Adamson has the most difficult role in this show, as she sings the titular ‘Bat out of Hell’. He soars through with ease, and showcases his vocals and it was difficult to deter your attention from him. Martha Kirby as ‘Raven’ was also great. She was a perfect blend of innocent and rebellious, mixed with a hint of teenage cringe at the antics of her parents. This pairing was great and did seem very genuinely in love.
The other two stand out performers were ‘Falco’ and ‘Sloane’ (Rob Fowler and Franziska Schuster) as ‘Raven’s parents. This pairing had amazing chemistry, creating beautiful harmonies throughout every number. They were the comic relief of the show, being a perfectly funny but desperately in love couple.
The ensemble carried this show exquisitely. James Lowrie was the stand out for me, it was difficult to take my eyes off of his precise and meticulous dancing. Along with the rest of the ensemble, the choreography was sharp and in time. A big shout out to fight captain Jamie Jukes, for navigating the difficult fight scenes.
Technically, this is a stellar show. With camera work, flames, motorbikes and explosions, your senses will be enthralled, however at some points, it was a little overkill and didn’t necessarily add to the story. The plot was a tad confusing, but when mixed with the songs, it was quite easily forgivable. Together with Steve Sidwell (orchestrator) this is a feat of a show!
We were very lucky to be treated to the local Harley Davidson club conducting a drive by for the opening night, revving up the audience (literally!). The band and cast were exquisite and gave as close to a Meatloaf performance as you could get.
If you want a night of good music and fun, this is definitely the show for you.