Batman Live

When it was announced that Batman Live was coming to the O2 arena, I couldn't wait to get my hands on tickets and go see one of my all time favourite superheroes on the stage. And it didn't let me down either. From the moment I entered the building and made my way to the merchandise stand, I could feel the 'Batman' aura. Many people turned up in Batman inspired costumes from full Riddler attire, to cowls, capes and masks which I tried in vain to get my hands on, only to discover that the masks had sold during the first couple of days. So I had to settle for a cape instead. But none the less, I got my batman memorabilia.

On to the show and the stage is already set to mirror Gotham City with a digital Background that help stage the setting, and serve for some pretty good storytelling as the show went on. Especially in transitions of scenes, the background would mimic a comic book and would 'flick' through the pages, helping to fill in gaps in the narrative in between scenes, and when we are introduced to the Batcave, it becomes Batman's computer that provided Batman and the audience with a variety of information. It would also help in fight scenes, and would feature flashes of bullets and thugs. There were two standout moments for me that used the digital background. The first being is when Alfred and Dick Grayson were in the Batcave whilst Batman was driving to Arkham Asylum to confront Joker. As he is making his journey, Alfred is reading off the villains list whilst scanning through their profiles.

The second eye catching piece using the screen is Batman's actual trip as he is speeding towards Arkham Asylum and we are basically treated to a 2-3 minute cinematic experience, watching the Batmobile navigate the Gotham streets at high speed.



For me the show itself was an enjoyable experience, and I would imagine that most people, whether they are fans or not, would enjoy themselves too. The performances of actors and actresses were solid, and the first time appearances of all the characters on the stage drew rounds of applause. Batman, as ever, was the gruff no nonsense vigilante we all love. Robin in Dick Grayson mode I found annoying at times but overall served his purpose and told his tragic story well. The Joker, accompanied by Harley Quinn, was a show stealer to no surprise, with the actor portraying him creating a crazy over the top 'Clown Prince of Crime'. Commissioner Gordons' role was limited but was true to the loyal, honest police man. There really wasn't a character that was a disappointment, even though some had small roles and may of been underplayed.

A highlight of the night was the Batman signal placed near the entrance to the building which not only attracted me and my friend, but many others, and prompted us all to pose in front of it many times before we finally left for the night.