The Growing Stage Presents The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical

I was first introduced to the Percy Jackson series last school year. My son was reading The Lightning Thief for his language arts class, and he came home and talked about it almost every day. His entire 7th grade class loved the series so much that they themed their 7th grade dance around this story. Yes, they even had blue food! Since then, my son has continued reading the series and has become captivated by this incredible group of teens.

When we found out that The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical was going to be a part of The Growing Stage Season 41 line up, we knew we had to go. Like all shows at the Growing Stage, I knew it would be fun, exciting, and full of heart, but this show went beyond all my expectations, and, honestly, a big reason for this was because of the lead, Tyler Miranda. I have seen a lot of shows at The Growing Stage, and have loved them all, but from the moment Tyler, I mean Percy, began to sing, I knew this show was going to be something special!

For those that don’t know, The Lightning Thief is the first book in the Percy Jackson series. It sets the stage for various quests where some very special teenagers try to save the world and each other. Percy Jackson seems to be plagued with disappointment, including continuous expulsions from several schools. Like most teens, he feels like he just doesn’t fit in and wants to find his place in this world. Percy’s mom, played by Meg Foley, encourages Percy to embrace his differences and see them as strengths instead of weaknesses. To help him find out who he is, Percy’s mom sends him away to a very special summer camp.

Photo Provided by The Growing Stage

While at Camp Half-Blood, Percy learns that he is the son of Poseidon, making him a demigod. While there, he also makes new friends that have the same struggles as Percy. He starts to feel a little less alone. Unfortunately, Percy doesn’t get much time at Camp Half-Blood because he suddenly finds himself on a quest to stop a war between the Gods. Someone has stolen Zeus’ lightning bolt so Percy and his new friends (also demigods) embark on an adventure full of obstacles and challenges to make sure Zeus gets his bolt back. I am not going to tell you how it ends. You will just have to see the show to find out!

“The things that make you different are the very things that make you strong.”

Directed by Stephen L. Fredericks, The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical is a true coming of age story. Percy along with Grover, played by Dan F. Sims, and Annabeth, played by Jeorgi Smith, are trying to find their place in the world. While working hard to get their parents (who also happen to be Gods) to notice them, they begin to realize that the only approval they really need is their own. Percy, Grover, and Annabeth learn to work together using their unique strengths to make it through some very difficult situations. They learn that the things that make them different are the things that make them strong.

Photo Provided by The Growing Stage

The cast had a beautiful connection on stage. It made the audience truly root for their triumph. When Tyler sang, you could feel each and every emotion, especially his pain. Jeorgi did a wonderful job showing Annabeth’s struggle to prove herself to her mother mixed with her independence and strength. She was the epitome of girl power. Dan portrayed Grover as the perfect supportive best friend who, despite his nervousness and fear, pushed through each obstacle they encountered.

The Lightning Thief captivated my family’s attention for the entire show. Tyler was so full of life and passion that it transferred into the audience. I could see audience members of all ages fully involved in his journey and hoping for him to win. As always, Davis Cameron Lemley who played Luke and various other characters in the show, also captivated the audience. He flawlessly transitions through a variety of characters showing all different emotions. Davis is definitely one of our favorite Growing Stage actors.

The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical is the perfect show for the entire family! It is relatable, fun, heartwarming, and adventurous. It teaches us to embrace what makes us different and love ourselves for who we are. It also highlights the importance of friendship and family. It was one of my favorite shows of all time at The Growing Stage!