Total Eclipse: Symphonic Steinman - concert review

To celebrate the works of legendary musical genius, Jim Steinman, a powerhouse collection of vocalists gathered at the London Coliseum to create Total Eclipse - the ultimate concert event. With the English National Opera orchestra adding a rich tapestry of tones to the versatile score, this made for a magical blend and worthy tribute to the man behind hits including 'Bat Out of Hell' and 'Holding Out For A Hero', 'I Would Do Anything for Love (But I Won’t Do That)', and 'It’s All Coming Back to Me Now' alongside the show's namesake, 'Total Eclipse of the Heart'.

Complimenting the expansive influence that Steinman had on the work of Meat Loaf, Glenn Adamson returned, fresh from leading Bat Out of Hell the Musical as Strat on its recent UK tour, joined by Danielle Steers, who originated the role of Zahara. Further adding to the wealth of talent, Christina Bianco, Zoe Birkett, Tyce Green, Natalie May Paris, Karine Hannah and RED also take to the stage. Whether a certain fit with the rock genre or an alternative power ballad, each artist had their time to shine, providing a special combination across the setlist.

The division of tracks was an interesting surprise to be enjoyed. Both Glenn and Danielle gave away songs that would've been corresponding with their previous casting, to invite refreshing renditions of such, while demonstrating expansion in their own repertoire. For instance, Tyce and Zoe's energetic performance of 'Dead Ringer For Love' brought an electric feel to the room, with Danielle taking on lesser known pieces with prowess - 'Catwoman's Theme' and 'Ravishing'. Natalie and Glenn's chemistry is put to the test with 'Paradise By The Dashboard Light', and RED had the ideal closing for Act 1, leaving audiences heading into the interval eager for more.

Although the onlookers are littered with Bat the musical merchandise, the diversity of content absolutely satisfies that craving, while going beyond into new realms. Offering a polished staging, Chris Clegg's direction gives a duality of class - particularly with the orchestrations musically directed and conducted by Jack Bennett - mixed with the opportunity for the performers to have a bit of extra fun that wouldn't be possible when refined to scripted roles. Phone torches were encouraged for 'Rock and Roll Dreams Come True', as were moments where singing and dancing were advocated, to immerse in the show. Luckily, the audience engaged with this respectfully, having a great time but not detracting from the pros, still allowing appreciation for the vocalists on stage. With the extreme length of most of the Steinman discography, its impossible to even fit all the hits into the 2 hour 45 run time allowance, and no doubt we could continue listening to the remarkable set up endlessly too.

Total Eclipse: Symphonic Steinman was an incredible showcase to honour a creative that had such a profound impact on the music industry through the means of many current performers at the top of their game. There's clearly a hunger for more like this, and the fusion of the classic pop rock genre with orchestral beauty to produce such a unique vibe is extraordinary.