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City Center’s ‘Bat Boy’ Revival Opens to Applause for Staging, Scrutiny of the Material

The gala presentation introduces new songs, a revised book and expanded orchestrations as it launches the venue’s 2025–26 musical-theater season.

Overview

  • Performances run through November 9 following the October 29 opening at New York City Center.
  • Taylor Trensch stars as Edgar with Kerry Butler, Gabi Carrubba, Alex Newell and Christopher Sieber among a high-profile ensemble.
  • The revival features new numbers and book changes from the original creators, with expanded orchestrations by Laurence O’Keefe and Ben Green.
  • Critics highlight Alex Timbers’s production values, including David Korins’s multilevel set, Jennifer Moeller’s costumes, Justin Townsend’s B‑movie lighting, Ray Wetmore’s puppet and prop design, and a 12‑piece band led by Andrew Resnick.
  • Early reviews praise performances and design yet raise concerns about the show’s length, repetitive structure and tonal balance, as opening night doubled as a gala honoring producer Bee Carrozzini and City Center’s mission.