Classic children’s novel Percy Jackson and The Lightning Thief has now been turned an all singing, all dancing musical, adding another dimension to the classic tale of growing up as a ‘half-blood’.
Taken from the original story by Rick Riordan, there is no doubt about the quality of the storytelling – the book being a bona fide children’s classic. The plot follows the discovery by the young Perseus Jackson (played by Vasco Emauz) that he is in fact a half blood and can trace his ancestry back to the Greek Gods.
The story follows his journey to discover his roots – and to connect with the father he doesn’t know and has never met. Along with a couple of friends, Percy sets off for summer camp and embarks on a journey that he will never forget – and that will change his life forever.
As much a story about being ‘different’ and with multiple references to neurodivergence, this modern retelling by Joe Tracz brings in a new dimension, focusing on the issues of accepting and embracing differences and the difficulties this can bring in fitting in and being accepted, particularly as a teenager.
Along with Grover (Cahir O’Neill) and Annabeth (played by Kayna Montecillo), Percy Sets off on his mission to self-discovery with the action and plotline driven largely by songs specifically written for the musical.
Within the songs there’s a surprising range of variety and difference in tone with O’Neill as Grover in particular seeming to sing more folksy-tinged numbers. While at times the first half felt like a slow burn, this is reflective of the plot and the way that it slowly unfolds towards an action-packed finale.
Despite the dialogue and the storyline being delivered largely through song, the kids in the audience were absolutely captivated from start to finish, following every minute.
Emauz as Percy was mesmerising, his fantastic voice and excellent stage presence being compelling from start to finish. A real star. But then the same could be said of the rest of the cast as the quality of the performance was exceptional.
Montecillo as Annabeth was also fantastic, engaging in her role and, again, had an incredible voice. Likewise, O’Neill as Grover, who was also excellent in this role.
The likeability of the three main characters and their fantastic delivery absolutely made the show. The supporting cast were also excellent – with further stand out performances from Simone Robinson as Sally Jackson, and Niall Sheehy as Mr Brunner.
The stellar cast absolutely makes this show. The songs are well written, and move the story along nicely, packing an emotional punch to deliver the storyline. Choreographed with a simple pared-back urban stage, the musical has contemporary edge that will appeal to the audience it is directed at – by and large children through to teenagers who have grown up with the books, or those new to it.
This is an excellent show with a host of quality talent on the stage. A great night out for the family, and not to be missed by fans of Percy Jackson – of which there will be many. Percy Jackson and The Lightning Thief is a great family night out. The show is at The Regent Theatre until Saturday, October 10 tickets are available online.
-CNM-
