The Lightning Thief - The Percy Jackson Musical

The Other Palace Theatre

The musical Gods blessed this show. This is a feel good show that's enchanting and filled with talent.

Camp half-blood has made its way to The Other Palace Theatre this winter, it has hit London stage like a bolt of lightning from the musical gods. The all-star director/choreographer/movement director of this musical is Lizzi Gee, who has worked on a variety of shows from film to opera to theatre, such as Nöel Coward theatre's Dr Strangelove (winter 2024) and Lolanthe (English National Opera 2023). Gee has directed a piece that gives the Greek mythology themed musical 'The Lightning Thief' written Joe Trancz, an adaptation of the 2005 book 'The Lightning Thief' by Rick Riordan. Don't be too busy, like the Greek Gods and come watch this Greek god drama packed musical!

Percy Jackson, played by Max Harwood, the lost, unique 16-year-old has been expelled from a number of schools, does not seem to fit in and he's lost hope that he has a place anywhere. A strange event on a school trip is the catalyst to a strike of change and the blanks of his life are revealed. They are out of this world, literally. Greek Gods, monsters and a crazy quest that takes Percy way down to the underworld, you bet the iconic Hades makes an appearance and the sneaky Medusa. The protagonist, Percy, finally finds friends who understand him, relate to and help him learn that there is a higher plan. What's a half-blood? Watch this musical and you'll find out.

Of course, the main half-blood, Percy is given a vulnerable personality by actor Max Harwood, the development of his character is captivating, and his journey is colourful. You want to protect him at all costs. Moments of emotion and the time he takes to absorb the new HUGE information he's given is strong, his thoughts are almost as important as the lines themselves. One stand out actress was Pailsley Billings, she played several comic roles; such as Medusa and the demon teacher, what makes her stand out is the contrast between the comic roles and her main role Sally Jackson, Percy's mum. She switches from comic, to a more serious and important tone faster than lightning, the difference between each one of her characters is clear; shown through how she delivers lines and moves. Her role in the show almost narrates the journey of the characters, it's fascinating! The whole cast together have their own personalities to show the different Gods they are related to, but also as a unit create some engrossing images of monsters and drama!

Ryan Dawson Laight designed set/costume and Charlie Morgan Jones is the lighting designer, their work together creates this fascinating, out of this world environment on stage. The mix of set and lighting working in tandem gives the show its magic. For instance, there is this insane moment where the cast hold objects and create this huge, scary monster and it's such a simple idea, but the cast working together to create the moment, with light and set is so striking. Another striking moment that creates the magic of the story is when Gregg Barnett enters the stage as one of his many characters Poseidon, the lord of the sea and bubbles are scatterd on to the stage to signify how he is the lord of the sea. Although, again this is simple, it is imperitive in understanding the importance of his character and who he is. Set and lighting display a high quality in this piece and both working together are a valuble and essential part of this show.

If you want to join camp half blood and have the time of your life get yourself to The Other Palace to get your place and meet the Greek Gods! This show has every element working in harmony together to create the perfect musical theatre cake, it's a delight for all the senses. The actor's voices bring something different to each song, their personalities shine through each section and Percy's character development from start to finish is sublime. It's one for musical theatre lovers and this musical deserves masses of recognition, for it's catchy and fun songs, along with it's moving poignant moments. Get your Hawaiian shirt on and strap in for a powerful performance.

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