Bat Boy-the Musical - Original Cast (CD 2001)

Bat Boy is musical theatre for folks who say they hate musical theatre! Based on a story printed in the Weekly World News several years ago, the show follows the rise and fall of a Bat Boy discovered in the hills of West Virginia, and the townfolk who revile or celebrate him. The audience is asked to decide who, in the end, is the real "freak." The score has great variety, ranging from rock to rap to gospel to metal glam, and the talented cast definitely have the vocal chops to carry the challenge, particularly the actors portraying BatBoy/Edgar, Meredith, and Shelly. The book is very clever, and you'll want to hear it over and over to catch all the jokes. This show is gaining popularity among amateur theatre groups, and once you've heard the cast recordings you will certainly want to catch it live. That being said, it's not really suitable for children; I would say 16 and up. The show addresses themes of murder, incest, bestiality (sort of), and there's a good bit of gore when Edgar's feral tendencies take hold. Fans of South Park, Stephen King, and the Evil Dead films will adore it. If you thought Rent and Chicago were too racy, stay away. In my opinion, this show is a gem, a true innovation, and the perfect musical for anyone with a taste for the macabre.