BELFAST — “Get ready for a chilling, thrilling, and darkly romantic journey as the Belfast Maskers present ‘Bat Boy: The Musical,’” said Belfast Maskers, in a news release. “ This cult classic is set to grip audiences with its blend of horror, humor, and unconventional romance.”

Bat Boy: The Musical opens on July 11 at the Basil Burwell Community Theater.

Ripped from the headlines of Weekly World News, the rocking musical spins the eerie tale of a half-boy, half-bat creature discovered in a cave in West Virginia. The townspeople's reactions ranges from horror to compassion, leading to a series of events filled with shocking twists, bloody encounters, and forbidden love. The story was written by Keythe Farley and Brian Fleming, with music by Laurence O'Keefe.

"Our production of 'Bat Boy: The Musical' dives pretty deep into the darker aspects of the story, while still highlighting its romantic, absurd, and humorous elements," said Director Erik Perkins, in a news release. "It's an adventure, but it's a hell of a ride that will have audiences gasping, maybe even wiping away a tear or two, and—if you're in the front row—a little bit of spattered blood."

The show features a dynamic cast of local talent, including recent BAHS graduate Miles Mailloux as the enigmatic title character and Olivia West as the troubled teen Shelley Parker. Maggie Machaiek plays the nurturing Meredith Parker and Andrew Lipman as the conflicted father, Dr. Parker. An ensemble of Angelina Nichols, Dakota Wing, Zachary Field, Ada Curry, Gwen Sauvage, Christine Goosman, Malaya Moore, and Katey Stearns portray the citizens of Hope Falls—as well as a variety of other characters including strange creatures, gods, and demons.

“With blood-pumping music, choral direction by Dominic Williams, and captivating choreography by Julia Clapp, ‘Bat Boy: The Musical’ promises a night of remarkable theater,” said Maskers. “With any good musical, the music sets the tone as well as driving the story forward.”

"Lawrence O'Keefe blends elements of jazz, metal, and classic musical theater to bring an unsettling beauty to the town of Hope Falls," said Williams.

Perkins and Williams previously collaborated on Belfast Maskers' 2018 production of the musical adaptation of "Little Women". A live band is lead by David Delano on keys.

Performances are at the Basil Burwell Community Theater from July 11 through the 21st, with shows Thursday through Sunday at 7 p.m.; and 2 p.m. matinees on both Saturday and Sunday.

General admission tickets are $22, with a $5 discount for students and seniors, and can be purchased online at http://www.belfastmaskers.com.

There is a special $10 Preview Night performance on Wednesday, July 10, at 7 p.m. 

Parental guidance is strongly suggested due to violence, sexuality, and other disturbing material.