CritterChatter™ Blog
Bat In Lexington Opera House Stealing The Show
There's always plenty of activity within the Lexington Opera House, but it's not always the show that gets all the attention. Sometimes, it's a bat.
"We affectionately call the bat Bruce Wayne," says Luanne Franklin, the Program Director with the Lexington Opera House.
In an area where bats aren't uncommon, officials aren't surprised with the addition to the Opera House.
"We know that some of our neighbors have similar problems," says Luanne Franklin.
Bruce Wayne is becoming the star of some shows. When the music starts playing, and the stage lights are on, he sometimes comes out for his own appearance, most recently at a Beatles tribute show.
"Bruce must have liked the music because he came out in the audience, made several circles around and became part of the entertainment," says Luanne Franklin.
"I was in the audience for the Randy Newman concert. Bruce came in, did a turn around the house and the audience responded with a couple whoops and hollers, and someone screamed. Randy Newman confessed he thought the commotion was for him," says Sheila Kenny, the marketing Director for the Lexington Center.
Even as we were filming at the Lexington Opera House, the bat made a special appearance, but it was too quick to be caught on camera.
"I thought I saw it fly underneath the balcony," says Sheila Kenny.
There's no telling where Bruce, or his family may be. He has a tendency to come and go.
"The only way to get these guys out of here is total exclusion, and installation of a one way bat escape valve, or multiple bat escape valves," says Gabe Hartwig with Critter Control.
There are quite a few people working on the problem.
"The whole goal is keeping everything sealed up," says Gabe Hartwig.
Bat, or no bat...the show must go on.
"It's Cats versus bats in the next 2 weeks," says Luanne Franklin.
While officials say, you shouldn't be alarmed to see Bruce enjoying the show as well, don't be surprised if he steals the show.
"You may have to pay extra if he makes a cameo appearance," says Luanne Franklin.
Officials say having a bat within the Lexington Opera House is nothing new. They first noticed one after renovations in 1976 and say they've never caused any harm.
Credits: By Tamara Evans, WKYT.com
