Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham – until 5th April 2025
Reviewed by Jacqui Radford
4****
Inspired by the iconic album, Jim Steinman’s Bat Out of Hell the Musical is a perfect excuse for Meatloaf fans to rock and roll to their heart’s content. At Cheltenham this explosive production unapologetically fills the stage.
The production has a storyline, but it is secondary to the music and the vast majority of the audience are definitely there for the music. Central to the production are Strat, Raven, Falco and Sloane, all entwined by Strat’s fascination with Raven who is fiercely protected by her father (Falco). Strat is an eternally youthful member of an underground gang ‘The Lost’, smitten by the idea of rebellion, passion and power.
On this tour, Sharon Sexton and Rob Fowler return to the roles of Raven’s parents, Falco and Sloane that they brought to the stage in 2017. They each bring a mature depth to the storyline, add a nostalgic edge to the music and abounding energy to the choreography.
Strat and Raven, played by Glenn Adamson and Katie Tonkinson are almost a younger version of Falco and Sloane’s love story. Glenn certainly doesn’t hold back on the rock and roll vibes (think swinging microphone, huge leaps and adrenaline fuelled manoeuvres).
The stage production for this show adds an edge that elevates the importance of excellent camera work and lighting. The camerawork is projected on screens that add another dimension to your focus on the stage choreography. The lighting and confetti cannons add to the mood of each musical piece.
As you’d expect from anything linked with Meatloaf the band are centre stage at Cheltenham, resulting in a concert feel that nobody can complain about. At the end of the performance, the entire audience was on its feet. It is a fully immersive experience that anyone familiar with Meatloaf will appreciate and maybe even get the urge to pull the album out of their archive.