REVIEW - BAT OUT OF HELL THE MUSICAL | PALACE THEATRE MANCHESTER |03/03/2025

Bat Out of Hell first roared onto the stage in Manchester in 2017 before taking the world by storm. I had the opportunity to see it during its world premiere run and again on tour in 2021, so I was eager to see how this latest tour would capture the electrifying spirit of Jim Steinman’s rock musical. Known for its explosive energy and over-the-top staging, it blends a dystopian love story with larger-than-life musical numbers. Now returning to Manchester’s Palace Theatre, this latest tour presents a stripped-back version of the original production.

Loosely inspired by Peter Pan, Bat Out of Hell follows Strat, the forever-young leader of ‘The Lost,’ a group of rebellious teens living beneath the dystopian city of Obsidian. When Strat falls for Raven, the sheltered daughter of authoritarian ruler Falco, tensions rise between their two worlds, setting the stage for a dramatic clash of passion, rebellion, and rock anthems.

As the story unfolds, Raven wrestles with her desire for freedom while her parents, Falco and Sloane, struggle with their own fractured relationship. Meanwhile, Strat’s fellow outcasts, including Jagwire and Valkyrie, navigate their own dreams and desires, adding layers to the central conflict. While the narrative may take a backseat to the powerhouse musical numbers, the themes of love, defiance, and youthful rebellion remain at its core, delivering a theatrical experience that feels both exhilarating and dreamlike.

Compared to previous productions, this tour’s set design takes a more minimalist approach. While past iterations featured elaborate, multi-level structures, this version relies on a more stripped-down aesthetic. The decision to place the band on stage adds a concert-like atmosphere, reinforcing the show’s rock-opera feel. Two large video screens provide live footage filmed by an on-stage cameraman, offering a unique perspective on the action.

The musical arrangements remain the production’s strongest asset. The band delivers a powerful sound that does justice to Steinman’s anthemic score, with classic hits like Bat Out of Hell, Paradise by the Dashboard Light, and I’d Do Anything for Love (But I Won’t Do That) providing the electrifying moments that keep the audience engaged.

At this performance, Strat was played by alternate Luke Street, who brought boundless energy and powerful vocals to the role. Katie Tonkinson’s Raven delivered emotional depth and soaring vocals, particularly shining in Heaven Can Wait. Rob Fowler and Sharon Sexton, as Falco and Sloane, stole the show with their fiery chemistry, particularly in Paradise by the Dashboard Light.

Understudies Ethan Tanner (Jagwire) and Sophie Rose-Emery (Valkyrie) stepped into their roles with confidence, adding charm and charisma to their performances. The ensemble brought high-octane energy to every number, ensuring that the production maintained its signature rock-and-roll spirit.

Bat Out of Hell delivers on its promise of high-energy rock spectacle, bringing Jim Steinman’s legendary music to life in electrifying fashion. This latest production may take a more concert-style approach, but it still packs a punch with its powerhouse vocals and dynamic performances. While the storytelling remains secondary to the music, fans of Meat Loaf’s iconic anthems will find plenty to love. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the show, Bat Out of Hell offers an exhilarating night out that celebrates the rebellious spirit of rock and roll.

Bat Out of Hell is at the Palace Theatre Manchester until Saturday 8th March 2025. Tickets are available for purchase through the link provided below.

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If you would like more information about the show, please click the button below to visit the show's official website.

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Photo Credit - Chris Davis Studio 2