Bat Out of Hell roars into Leicester’s Curve theatre this summer, showcasing the stunning songs of Jim Steinman. Having been a part of the show’s cast since its 2017 debut, the journey for Sharon Sexton has been as thrilling as the show itself…
Being part of the cast since its inception, it’s clear that the actress enjoys her role as Sloane. Sloane’s character is complex – torn between her devotion to her overprotective husband, Falco, and her desire to support her daughter’s quest for freedom. “It’s a real joy to play on stage every night,” she says, highlighting the emotional depth and the challenging vocal numbers that come with the role.
Picture credit: Matt Crockett
Initially, Sharon was surprised by how many of the show’s iconic songs she already knew. “I didn’t know at the time that Jim Steinman had written for artists like Cher, Bonnie Tyler, Air Supply, and Celine Dion,” she admits. While she wouldn’t have labeled herself a Meat Loaf fan beforehand, she now recognises her admiration for his music. “It turned out I was a closet Meat Loaf and Steinman fan!”
The actress describes Steinman’s music as larger-than-life, requiring the cast to be “vocal athletes.” His compositions push the boundaries of notes and emotions, creating a rollercoaster experience both for performers and the audience. “It is a real privilege to sing these songs,” she says, praising Steinman’s genius. “He truly was a genius, and these songs inspire the audience to indulge in fantasy, which he was so famous for.”
The experience of working with Jim Steinman over Skype during rehearsals was one that the actress will never forget. “It was so special to have him in the room, building songs with us,” she recalls, sharing how the song “What Part of My Body” was originally written as a male solo, but Steinman and the musical supervisor allowed them to transform it into a duet. “This is something I will never forget,” she says, adding that the song holds a special place in her heart.
Picture credit: Matt Crockett
When Meat Loaf came to see the show in 2019, he was incredibly supportive. “He pulled me aside after the show and told me how wonderful it was to see someone really work the story and understand Jim’s lyrics,” she says. “It was a complete pinch-me moment.”
Bat Out of Hell is known for its high- energy performances, and the cast knows how to keep that momentum going. “The music is so inspiring that it’s impossible not to fully commit,”
the actress explains. “It sets your soul on fire.” She also emphasises how the energy of the audience and the camaraderie of the cast play a huge role in maintaining that high intensity. “We feed off each other,” she says, “and even if someone is feeling a little under, we have each other’s backs.”
Before every show, the actress has her pre-performance rituals. “I have to do a vocal warm-up, I have to have a coffee, and I have to get down to the stage as late as possible,” she shares with a smile. She admits that standing in the wings waiting makes her nervous and cold.
Even though both Jim Steinman and Meat Loaf are no longer with us, the actress continues to honour their legacy with every performance. “I always want to do Jim proud,” she says, staying true to his direction and notes. There’s a special moment in the show, just before the second act begins, where she stands on stage alone as Meat Loaf’s original song plays on the radio. “I always give a little nod to him and have a little chat,” she adds, explaining that it’s her way of feeling his presence.
A fan favourite, “What Part of My Body Hurts the Most” is as magical to perform today as it was when it first premiered. “It never gets old singing this song,” the actress says.
“We had such an integral part in creating it, and it gives me goosebumps every night without fail.”
The chemistry between the actress and her husband, who plays Falco, is undeniable. “I don’t envision a world where Rob and I would play this show without each other,” she says.
Picture credit: Matt Crockett
Their connection is so deep that it’s rare to have both of them out of contract at the same time. “We feel really lucky to be reprising these roles,” she adds, reflecting on their incredible partnership both on stage and in life. They married in 2023 after meeting on the show, and share an adorable son called Tyler.
For those who haven’t yet seen Bat Out of Hell, the actress sums it up perfectly: “It’s an absolutely bombastic show, filled with rock anthems, huge vocals, and misfit characters who will take you by surprise.” She encourages everyone to experience it for themselves, especially when the show comes to Leicester. “Live theatre is so special,” she says. “It leaves such a lasting impression.
Take a leap of faith and jump into Obsidian with us – you won’t be disappointed!”
Bat out of Hell plays at Curve between June 9 and 14.
For tickets, visit: www.curveonline.co.uk
