The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical strikes with divine force at The Other Palace, delivering an electrifying adventure worthy of Mount Olympus itself. Adapted from Rick Riordan’s beloved Percy Jackson & The Olympians series, this musical brings the mythological mayhem of The Lightning Thief to life with a bolt of energy that even Zeus would envy.
From the moment Percy Jackson (a half-blood with a knack for attracting trouble) discovers his divine parentage, the show hurls the audience headfirst into a whirlwind quest that echoes the trials of ancient heroes. Percy, joined by his loyal companions Annabeth Chase (daughter of Athena, always wise beyond her years) and Grover Underwood (a satyr with a heart as big as Dionysus’ wine cellar), embarks on a journey to retrieve Zeus’ stolen master bolt and prevent an all-out war among the gods.
The quirky production crackles with high-voltage performances, with Percy’s struggle to embrace his demigod destiny echoing the trials of Achilles—only with fewer arrows and more killer guitar riffs. The music pulses with the spirit of battle, blending rock anthems with heartfelt ballads that could charm even the Sirens. Songs like “Good Kid” and “My Grand Plan” resonate with a raw, emotional core that highlights the characters’ vulnerabilities and strengths.
Morgan Gregory brings a heroic charm and youthful determination to Percy, perfectly capturing the essence of a reluctant hero thrown into a world where monsters lurk around every corner (and sometimes in math class). Lizzy-Rose Esin-Kelly’s Annabeth is as sharp as Athena’s wisdom, while Angus Benstead’s Grover is equal parts comic relief and heartfelt sincerity—a satyr who could talk his way out of Hades’ lair.
Xander Pang as Luke is the shining star in proceedings. His commanding stage presence and impressive vocals add gravitas to his portrayal of the conflicted son of Hermes. Pang brings both charm and menace to Luke, making him one of the most captivating figures in the production.
The production also showcases some astounding stagecraft, magic, and illusions that elevate the mythical atmosphere. From the entrance to Camp Half-Blood to encounters with Medusa and the Underworld, the show ingeniously transforms limited space into a vast world of gods, monsters, and heroes. The creative use of minimal props and clever effects ensures that the world of Percy Jackson feels as immersive as any Mount Olympus epic.
What adds to the magic is how several actors take on multiple roles, giving the show a larger-than-life feel despite its modest size. Whether they’re playing gods, mortals, or mythical creatures, the cast switches between characters with seamless fluidity, adding layers of depth and humour to the story.
Adding to the charm, many of the costumes and quirky sequences are deliberately designed to look low-budget, embracing a DIY aesthetic that fits perfectly with the spirit of Percy’s underdog journey. This playful approach enhances the show’s charm and highlights its commitment to fun and imagination over flashy spectacle.
Of course, any Percy Jackson adaptation must tread carefully to appease the loyal demigod fanbase, and while this musical occasionally veers off the golden path of Riordan’s novels, it stays true to the heart of the story. The humour is sharp enough to make Apollo jealous, and the emotional beats land with the force of Poseidon’s trident.
The only thing keeping this from ascending fully to the heights of Olympus is that, at times, the pacing in the first half feels a little like a quest gone slightly off-course—perhaps a brief detour in the Labyrinth. But those minor hiccups don’t detract from the show’s undeniable charm.
With its infectious energy, endearing performances, and heartfelt themes of belonging and bravery, The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical is a must-see for fans of the books and newcomers alike. It captures the essence of Riordan’s world while adding a vibrant, rocking soundtrack that makes you want to grab a celestial bronze sword and join the adventure. It will leave you feeling like you’ve faced the Hydra and lived to tell the tale. It’s worthy of a place in Elysium.
Zeus would definitely approve. ⚡️🎸🏺
The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical at The Other Palace
