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Debuting in 1997 at the Actors Gang Theatre in California, with subsequent stints off-Broadway and in London’s West End; cult musical Bat Boy, is premiering in South Africa with shows in Port Elizabeth at The Savoy Theatre from February 24th to March 3rd.

An American musical, Bat Boy is based on a 1992 Weekly World News story about a boy who’s half-bat, and grew up living in a cave. On his discovery a family tries to integrate him into society, and the story unpacks issues of acceptance and tolerance in a fun, light-hearted way, with pockets of darkness.

Brought to the city by the Eastern Cape chapter of the Performing Arts Network Southern Africa (PANSA) as part of the national Youth Performance Project, the cast are skilled amateur actors who are being given the chance to work with professional theatre professionals. Including professional sound and lighting equipment and expertise, supplied by Magnetic Storm

David Limbert, Magnetic Storm’s creative services manager and PANSA Eastern Cape Chair elaborates: “To give this group of talented 15 to 25 year olds the chance to work with respected theatre professionals including Marelize Booysens who makes her musical theatre directorial debut, and choreographer Candice Johnston – is a great stepping stone for them in pursuing their theatrical careers. To allow them to experience a truly professional production enables them to achieve their dream be it stage or screen.”

Described as Rocky Horror meets Edward Scissor Hands, the show is set to be a feast for all the senses and to have its audience on the edge of their seats as they follow Bat Boy’s journey.

Glenn van Eck, Magnetic Storm CEO adds: “As a company we like to support one community theatrical production a year, and to be able to support PANSA, our young budding actors, and bring their talent to our community is an honour. Our talented crew has worked on many professional productions including the National Arts Festival in Grahamstown; to allow them to share their experience and knowledge with the new wave of acting talent is something special for us.”

Tickets available through Computicket, R60 per person.