6 hours ago
‘Bat Out of Hell—The Musical’ to Be Filmed for Fall Streaming Premiere: A Rock Spectacle Goes Global
READ TIME: 3 MIN.
The worldwide phenomenon Bat Out of Hell—The Musical, inspired by the iconic songs of Jim Steinman and Meat Loaf, is poised to reach an even wider audience this fall. BroadwayHD has partnered with Stagescreen to film the current UK touring production on July 24, 2025, at the Wycombe Swan Theatre. The exclusive U.S. broadcast rights have been secured by BroadwayHD, with a global streaming premiere planned for later this year. This marks a pivotal moment for the rock musical, allowing fans—especially those in the LGBTQ+ community who have long connected with its themes of rebellion and self-discovery—to experience the spectacle from anywhere in the world .
Bat Out of Hell—The Musical features a book, music, and lyrics by Jim Steinman, and tells the story of Strat, the immortal leader of a group called The Lost, who falls for Raven, the daughter of a powerful despot. The musical has been praised for its electrifying performances, sprawling set designs, and, most notably, its exploration of outsider culture and passionate self-expression . The narrative—centered on rebellious youth carving out space for themselves in a world that sees them as different—has resonated deeply with LGBTQ+ audiences, who often see reflections of their own journeys in the story’s themes of chosen family and embracing authentic identities .
The current cast, led by Glenn Adamson as Strat and Katie Tonkinson as Raven, with Rob Fowler as Falco and Sharon Sexton as Sloane, brings Meat Loaf’s celebrated anthems—including “I’d Do Anything for Love (But I Won’t Do That),” “Paradise By The Dashboard Light,” and “Bat Out of Hell”—to life with a dynamic energy that has drawn rave reviews from both audiences and critics .
Filming and streaming the production is a significant step toward accessibility and inclusivity in the performing arts. For many LGBTQ+ individuals who may face barriers to attending live performances—whether due to geographic, financial, or personal reasons—digital access ensures that the transformative power of theatre is available to all. BroadwayHD’s involvement in capturing the event for a global audience continues the platform’s mission to democratize theatre, amplifying diverse stories and performers .
“Bat Out of Hell’s” narrative of defiance and self-acceptance has long made it a favorite within LGBTQ+ circles. The show’s embrace of difference, its celebration of found families, and its refusal to conform to societal norms echo the lived experiences of many within the community. The musical’s flamboyant costumes, powerful ballads, and unapologetically bold characters provide a space where LGBTQ+ audience members can see aspects of themselves reflected on stage—often in ways not found in more traditional narratives .
Since its 2017 debut, Bat Out of Hell—The Musical has journeyed from the West End to international stages, amassing a devoted following. The musical draws upon the legacy of Meat Loaf and Jim Steinman, whose own careers were marked by theatricality, genre-defiance, and a willingness to challenge the status quo. While not explicitly queer, the show’s themes and aesthetic have been embraced by LGBTQ+ performers and audiences who find empowerment in its message that “being different is not only okay, but extraordinary” .
The new filmed version features a talented ensemble including Georgia Bradshaw as Zahara, Ryan Carter as Jagwire, and Carla Bertran as Tink, alongside an ensemble of dynamic performers who bring energy and diversity to the production .
As Bat Out of Hell—The Musical prepares for its fall streaming premiere, the creative and producing teams are mindful of the importance of representation and access. Executive producer Julian Stoneman, along with producers Michael Cohl, Tony Smith, and David Sonenberg, has emphasized the value of bringing the musical’s message to a broader audience. “We want everyone to feel seen and welcomed in the world of Bat Out of Hell,” Stoneman said, reflecting the production’s commitment to celebrating diversity and inclusion .
