Garden Grove residents can experience the "unbelievable tale" of "Bat Boy" at the Gem Theater, with performances running through October 25. The production, a cult-classic comedy by Laurence O’Keefe, Key the Farley, and Brian Flemming, is directed by One More Productions company co-founder Damien Lorton.
Jack Janowicz stars in the titular role of "Bat Boy," a misshapen child discovered in the caverns of West Virginia. The story begins with siblings Rick, Ron, and Ruthie Taylor, portrayed by Jacob Anthony Cain, Matthew Rangel, and Madison Becker, respectively, as they explore caverns near their hometown of Hope Falls. They stumble upon the strange creature, who subsequently attacks their sister, leading the brothers to trap him. Sheriff Reynolds, played by Jon Michell, then decides to take the creature to local veterinarian Dr. Parker, portrayed by Peter Crisafulli.
While Dr. Parker initially considers euthanizing the creature and his daughter Shelley, played by Sasha Baker, is repulsed, Dr. Parker’s wife, Mrs. Parker (Adriana Sanchez), shows kindness toward the child. Meanwhile, local townsfolk, distressed by what appears to be devastating attacks on their cattle, quickly blame the mysterious "Bat Boy."
Unbeknownst to the fearful townsfolk, under the gentle guidance of Mrs. Parker, the feral child slowly begins to adapt to the world. Shelley’s initial repulsion transforms into affection, and the child, christened "Edgar," gradually learns to speak with the help of the Parkers' efforts and BBC audio tapes. However, the impending arrival of Rev. Billie Hightower, an energetic and bombastic figure portrayed by Trevin Stephenson, brings new pressure. The townsfolk, fearing the "Bat Boy," demand that Dr. Parker hide Edgar from the preacher, raising questions about the community's capacity for acceptance versus its fears of a potential "bloody nightmare."
Jack Janowicz’s portrayal of Edgar has been noted for his "amazing physicality" and the "striking makeup work" that transforms him into a seemingly teenage nosferatu. His performance is described as offbeat yet moving, showcasing both the wild boy and the gentle spirit within him. Janowicz also excels in song, with numbers such as the duet "A Home For You" with Sanchez’s Mrs. Parker and "Show You A Thing Or Two," cementing his place as one of One More Productions’ premiere vocalists.
Adriana Sanchez is consistently engaging in her Gem roles, and her portrayal of Mrs. Parker is another notable addition to her repertoire. She exhibits a wonderful, nurturing chemistry with Janowicz’s Edgar, alongside a complex dynamic with Crisafulli’s Dr. Parker. Sasha Baker’s work as Shelley is also recognized as stellar, energetic, and entertaining, contributing significantly to the show's campiness. Her magnetic dynamic with Janowicz’s Edgar is described as a driving engine for the latter half of the production.
Special mention also goes to Jon Michell for his engaging role as Sheriff Reynolds and Trevin Stephenson’s portrayal of Rev. Hightower. Many performers, including Stephenson, adeptly handle multiple roles, adding to the production’s frenetic and fun pace. The Gem’s "Black Box" shows are known for their limited three-week runs, offering productions that are often edgier than their mainstream musicals. This production is described as a "delightfully over-the-top offering," something strange, madcap, and ultimately mesmerizing. With its spooky holiday season timing, the captivating spectacle of "Bat Boy" offers a unique theatrical experience.
The show has some mature themes. For ticketing information, interested individuals can call 714-741-9550 x221 or email [email protected]. The Gem Theater is located at 12852 Main Street, Garden Grove, CA, 92840.
