The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical

Book by Joe Tracz

Music and Lyrics by Rob Rokicki

Directed by Eric Criner

Assistant Directed by Mariah Cardona

Music Directed by Ian Mead Moore

Audience Rating: PG (mild fantasy violence, mythical monsters, suspenseful moments, use of flashing lights)

Running Time: 2 hours + intermission

Accessible Seating: Available

Hearing Devices: Not Available

Sensory-friendly Showing: Not Available

ASL Showing: Not Available

Noises and Visuals to Prepare For: Loud music, flashing lights, menacing/dark scenes

Production Sound/Lighting Level: Comfortable

Reviewed by Eddy Herring

If you are a fan of the adventures of Percy Jackson, then The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical at Grand Prairie Arts Council is not to miss!

The Uptown Theatre is a great space for this large ensemble show. Actors fill the stage and use of the aisles surround the audience and bring you into the action. Vocals are strong, multiple scene changes are fast and flawless, and the use of projection moves the story along at a lightning pace.

Director Eric Criner assembled an array of talent who can sing, dance, and sustain the kind of energy needed to propel this fast-paced story. Musical Director Ian Mead Moore maximized the vocal talents of this cast and created some spectacular musical moments. Brianna Seanor took advantage of this group’s skills and choreographed well-synced, high-energy ensemble numbers, highlighting the talent and showcasing individual strengths. Sound Design by Ryan Brazil was strong, and Lighting Design by Jason R English worked well with staging and Scenic Design by Matt Betz.

The large ensemble cast was led by Jaxon Anderson (Percy), Yleana Dara (Annabeth), and Trey Cardona (Grover). These three outstanding performers take you on a magical journey that is filled with action, surprises, and very animated characters. Each carried the show and propelled the story with maximum ease and energy. The ensemble is a well-oiled machine, hitting every note while keeping pace with the leads through rigorous dance and smooth scene changes. Standouts are Bryson Beavers as Mr. D and Lauren Kirkpatrick as Hades.

The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical is fun and fast and well worth the time to see. The show runs through June 22, so get your tickets quick at https://www.prekindle.com/events/grandprairieartscounciluptowntheater.

Go see this show!

Eddy Herring

Photos courtesy of Kris Ikejiri