Ben Raanan and Ensemble (Photo – John Dlugolecki)
“Bat Boy: The Musical” has returned to Open Fist Theater Company in residence at Atwater Village Theatre. The revival and the timing are perfect!
By Carol Germain
We could use some hilarity, horror, rock ‘n roll, dancing, and absurdity triggering a couple hours of belly laughs, in light of the recent environmental disasters and other challenges that have affected many lately. This award-winning rock horror musical is based on a book by Keythe Farley and Brian Flemming, inspired by a 1992 story in a supermarket tabloid, the Weekly World News, about a half boy/half bat found in a cave in West Virginia.
And now, according to new headlines, Bat Boy (portrayed by a perfectly cast Ben Raanan) has been newly rediscovered living in a cave-like theater in Atwater Village! Music and lyrics are by Laurence O’Keefe. Pat Towne directs, alongside music director Sean Paxton and choreographer Jennifer Maples.
The large singing, dancing, and hilariously emoting cast are all on the same style page – histrionic physicality while developing the horror story and performing over two dozen highly active and fast-paced storytelling numbers. They nailed every minute with the play’s quirky and horrific style. The melodious, melodramatic rhythm and execution of the songs and stunts held tight through every minute. Warning: you are allowed to take your beverages into the theater, but don’t be surprised if your next sip snorts out your nose because the dialogue, songs, and physical hilarity are nonstop.
Director Towne’s comment explains the serious side woven into the music and dancing: “It’s about embracing, accepting and loving the ‘freak,’ those who are seen as other and outside the norm. If we can come to terms with the animal inside us, maybe people would stop doing terrible things in the name of being human.” Good perspective and advice.
Note: there are special effects and simulations including smoke, gunshots, and strobe lights. Don’t miss this one, it’s hilarious, mesmerizing, and relevant. (Mature, not recommended for children.)
Chima Rok and Ensemble (Photo – John Dlugolecki)
Bat Boy: The Musical
Story and Book by Keythe Farley and Brian Flemming
Music and Lyrics by Laurence O’Keefe
Directed by Pat Towne
Ensemble includes: Ben Raanan as Bat Boy, Sandra Kate Burck, Isaac Council, Hutchins Foster, Carmella Jenkins, Bethany Koulias, Michael Lanahan, Rebecca Larsen, Amir Levi, Scott Mosensen, Ethan Remez–Cott, Ziare Rene, Beth Robbins, Chima Rok, Robyn Roth and Grace Soens
March 7 through April 6:
Monday at 7:30 pm – March 17
Thursdays at 8:00 pm – March 27, April 3
Fridays at 8:00 pm – March 7 and 14
Saturdays at 8:00 pm – March 8, 15, 22, 29, April 5
Sundays at 7:00 pm – March 9, 16, 23, 30, April 6
Open Fist Theater, in residence at Atwater Village Theatre
3269 Casitas Ave Los Angeles, CA 90039
Free parking in the ATX (Atwater Crossing) lot one block south of the theater; also, free street parking (but don’t park in the Momed lot)
Tickets: openfist.org or (323) 882-6912
The Ensemble (Photo – John Dlugolecki)
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