With books, films and recent Disney TV series, it was only a matter of time before The Lightning Thief – The Percy Jackson Musical was made into a musical. Now touring the UK, the show has had quite the developmental journey since its original 60-minute off-Broadway debut in 2014. Based on Rick Riordan's novel, with music and lyrics by Rob Rokicki and a book by Joe Tracz, the musical draws directly from the first instalment in Riordan's beloved fantasy series.
The Lightning Thief bursts to life with 16-year-old demigod Percy Jackson (Vasco Emauz) singing “The Day I Got Expelled.” This number encapsulates everything the musical does best: catchy tunes, instantly likeable hero, engaging storytelling, colourful ensemble of characters, and vibrant choreography. What doesn't work so well is where the story circles around itself without much forward momentum or suddenly accelerates over key plot points.
But under Lizzi Gee's dynamic direction and choreography, the production pulses with energy, particularly in the ensemble numbers that burst with youthful enthusiasm. Gee is adept at seamlessly incorporating movement into scenes with numbers such as “The Campfire Song” highlighting Gee's ability to ground and harness the emotion from her young cast.
Leading the energetic cast, Emauz commands the stage with charisma, commitment and boyish charm earning a rock-star reception from the audience. His triple threat performance captures the emotional heart of Percy's journey with a genuine sense of struggle and growth. Joining Percy on the adventure are vocal powerhouse Kayna Montecillo as Annabeth and Cahir O'Neill as Grover who brings warmth and humour to the trio. The show's hard-working ensemble performs multiple roles with standout performances by Simone Robinson (Percy's mother), Joseph Connor and Niall Sheehy.
Under the musical direction of Will Joy, the five-piece band sounds far bigger than its size, with strong sound design from Dan Samson and orchestrations by Wiley Deweese and Rob Rokicki.
Visually, Ryan Dawson Laight's set design impresses with scale, filling the expansive New Wimbledon Theatre stage. However, the design is very one dimensional devoid of intricacies with its large, curved walls underused by the cast. Tim Deiling's lighting and Matt Powell's projections did most of the heavy lifting in conjuring the world of gods and monsters with a sprinkling of special effects, well executed and enhancing the sense of adventure.
Overall, The Lightning Thief feels firmly pitched toward younger audiences and its infectious energy and heartfelt performances make it an enjoyable and lively night at the theatre particularly delighting the Percy Jackson fanbase.
It runs until 1 November.
Reviewer: Lola Phillips Photos: Johan Persson