Review: Bat Out Of Hell at Palace Theatre is ‘a high-energy, adrenaline-fuelled ride’

Bat Out of Hell offers an electrifying night of music, spectacle, and passion, drawing in both devoted Meat Loaf fans and those new to his music.

With powerful performances, stunning visuals, and an immersive concert-like atmosphere, this production is a must-see.

The story follows a rebellious group of young adults called The Lost, who live in the underground sewers of the city. At the heart of the narrative is Raven (Katie Tonkinson), the sheltered daughter of a wealthy tycoon, who becomes captivated by their world.

She falls in love with Strat (Glenn Adamson), the charismatic leader of The Lost, but their romance is met with fierce resistance from her controlling father, Falco (Rob Fowler).

The result is a gripping tale of love, defiance, and rock ‘n’ roll rebellion, all set to the iconic music of Jim Steinman and Meat Loaf.

Bat Out of Hell at Palace Theatre

Jon Bausor’s set design is both immersive and striking. Unlike his work in Ghost Stories, which involved multiple settings, Bat Out of Hell primarily unfolds on a single dynamic set.

A key feature is Raven’s bedroom, tucked into a corner of the stage—potentially difficult to see from higher seats. However, a clever solution is in place: a cameraman films scenes in that area, broadcasting them onto large screens above the stage.

This seamless integration of live video ensures that no audience member misses a moment. Bausor also designed the costumes, drawing inspiration from 1970s rock rebellion. Leather and denim dominate the stage, perfectly encapsulating the show’s raw, untamed spirit.

The soundtrack is the undeniable heart of the show. With music by the legendary Jim Steinman and Meat Loaf, every song is masterfully woven into the narrative, enhancing both the storytelling and emotional depth.

As someone who didn’t grow up listening to Meat Loaf, I found myself completely enthralled by the music, and I left the theatre eager to explore more of his work. The production’s reliance on music rather than dialogue can be a challenge, but here, it is executed flawlessly. Each song feels purposeful, fueling the emotions and energy of the story.

A concert-like experience

The show blurs the lines between theatre and rock concert. The combination of camera work and live performance creates a unique, dynamic experience, giving the audience the best of both worlds.

Actors wield handheld microphones, adding to the concert illusion while still maintaining theatrical storytelling. Director Jay Scheib deserves praise for the fluid coordination between actors and the on-stage cameraman—his presence never disrupts the performance, instead enhancing its impact.

Lighting plays a pivotal role in creating the high-energy atmosphere. Patrick Woodroffe’s design features an exhilarating mix of strobe lights and PAR CAN lights, further amplifying the concert aesthetic. The dazzling effects transport the audience into a true rock ‘n’ roll fantasy, making every musical number feel larger than life.

Standout performances

While the entire cast delivers stellar performances, Sharon Sexton, who plays Raven’s mother, Sloane, is a true highlight. Her incredible vocals, comedic timing, and deeply emotional delivery make her a standout presence on stage.

She masterfully balances humor and heartbreak, keeping the audience engaged with every note she sings. Sexton’s portrayal is unpredictable yet deeply authentic, making her one of the most compelling characters in the production.

Whether you’re a lifelong Meat Loaf fan or a newcomer to his music, Bat Out of Hell promises an unforgettable experience. With its breathtaking performances, electrifying soundtrack, and cinematic staging, it’s a theatrical spectacle that shouldn’t be missed. Grab your friends—or enjoy it solo—and immerse yourself in the wild, rebellious world of Bat Out of Hell.

Tickets for Bat Out of Hell at Palace Theatre

Bat Out of Hell is playing at the Palace Theatre until March 8th. Get your tickets here