Bat Boy

 Bat Boy
Annual Gala Presentation
New York City Center
October 31, 2025

Photo courtesy of City Center

The New York City Center Annual Gala Presentation of Bat Boy is electrifying.  Laurence O’Keefe’s score is energetic and bold.  It sets a mysterious tone, while building a distinctive world where unusual events are believable.  His lyrics layer in humor and moments of discovery that propel the action.  The story, by Keythe Farley & Brian Flemming, is unique and full of surprises.  Their writing succinctly establishes bizarre, sympathetic characters that are emotionally engaging.  Director Alex Timbers finds the rhythm and pace that sets it all ablaze.  The cast is stupendous, creating the perfect balance of macabre fantasy and realistic drama. 

When a Bat Boy (played by Taylor Trensch) is found in a cave by three sibling adventurers (played by Andrew Durand, Olivia Puckett, & John-Michael Lyles), Sheriff Reynolds (played by Tom McGowan) seeks the expertise of Dr. Parker, the town veterinarian (played by Christopher Sieber).  Dr. Parker’s wife, Meredith (played by Kerry Butler), tenderly cares for the creature.  She teaches it to speak and read.  She names it Edgar.  When the townspeople grow suspicious and voice their apprehension, Meredith and her daughter, Shelley (played by Gabi Carrubba), jump to Edgar’s defense.  This makes Dr. Parker dangerously jealous.  He takes extreme action to fire up the townspeople’s fear, which quickly gets out of hand.  This brings Shelley and Edgar closer, which forces Meredith to reveal a dark, buried secret.

Kerry Butler & Taylor Trensch
Photo courtesy of City Center

Taylor Trensch is phenomenal as Edgar.  His physicality creates a shocking creature, who then
transforms into an intelligent young man.  His vocal quality adds humor and sophistication to his genially grotesque character.  He exhibits terrifying flashes where his untamed tendencies overpower his learned behavior.  His timing in these moments is impeccable, making them jarring and authentic.  

Kerry Butler portrays Merdith as a staunch conservative.  This is vastly contrasted in the scenes where she opens her heart to Edgar.  They are genuine, warm, and touching.  She and Mr. Trensch develop a trusting and honest connection.  Gabi Carrubba’s Shelley is rebellious and independent.  She discovers a different side of herself after spending time with Edgar.  She becomes thoughtful and emotionally aware, compelling the story to take a deep dive in the second act.  Dr. Parker’s reaction to his family’s allure to Edgar is unsettling.  Christopher Sieber successfully plays this lethal descent into madness for every laugh he can, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats.

Christopher Sieber as Dr. Parker
Photo courtesy of City Center

Alex Newell is stunning and magical in their cameo appearance as The God Pan.  There are also outstanding performances by Marissa Jaret Winokur, Tom Mc Gowan, Andrew Durand, Jacob Ming-Trent, Olivia Puckett, John-Michael Lyles, and an excellent ensemble. 

Bat Boy is playing at City Center through November 9.  This is an excellent production.  It is fun and entertaining, while delivering a pertinent message of acceptance.  Don’t miss it! 

Domenick Danza