A Hero’s Killer Quest (StageOne Family Theatre)

9 minutes ago

3 min read

The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical Book by Joe Tracz Music and Lyrics by Rokicki Adapted from the book The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan Directed by Andrew Harris Review by Lan Nguyen-Colgate

It’s a tale as old as time, the Greek Gods ruled the world and meddled in the lives of humans. The meetings between gods and mortals often led to affairs that resulted in children–demi-gods, half god and half human. StageOne Family Theatre brings an exciting, modern retelling of the myths through their production of The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical (adapted from the book by Rick Riordan).

The story focuses on the children of the gods, specifically a boy named Percy Jackson. Percy begins as a young teenager always messing up and getting into scrapes. After learning about his secret lineage, he gets sent to Camp Half-Blood where he meets other demi-gods. Friendships and rivalries are formed. Shortly after, the bolt of Zeus is stolen, and Percy is the prime suspect. He embarks on a quest with friends Grover and Annabeth to find the bolt and expose the true thief.

The Percy Jackson production alternates between two casts, Blue and Gold. I was fortunate to see the Blue Cast. All the cast members are strong, especially the core trio of Percy, Annabeth, and Grover. Landon Dodrill is open and earnest in the role of Percy Jackson. “Good Kid” is a standout number, allowing his voice to shine brightly as a kid eager to prove himself. Elliott Ann Lanier shows off her vocal skill and experience with impressive runs in several musical numbers including “Put You In Your Place” and “My Grand Plan”. Max Wright has a rich, mellow voice that is perfect for Grover who serves as both the musical and figurative bridge between friends. “Tree on the Hill” is a moving ballad showcasing his talent for acoustic pop style.

The ensemble provides a solid foundation for the show. A few issues with pitch occurred throughout the performance. In the beginning, the sound balancing felt a little off; background music was subdued and the voices of the cast sounded muffled. Sound quality progressively improved as the show went on. “Killer Quest” is one of the most enjoyable songs bringing great harmony and high energy from the trio and then the ensemble. Special attention should be paid to the adult actors Tony Milder and Neil

Robertson who switch seamlessly between different characters. They serve as good supports and foils to the younger cast members.

The show does contain conflict and violence within the plot. Monsters appear and fights occur, but director Andrew Harris has made significant effort to ensure the production is kid-friendly. Nothing is too scary, even for the smallest of audience members.

The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical is about challenging the system. The kids are not just fighting for their lives, but also the right to exist. They defy expectations set for them. While their immortal parents are in constant conflict with one another, Percy and his friends choose to build friendships based on mutual respect and trust. They emphasize true power is found in community.

The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical StageOne Family Theatre

January 31 and February 1, 7 & 8 at 2pm and 7:30 pm

Bomhard Theatre at Kentucky Performing Arts

501 West Main Street

Louisville KY 40202

www.stageone.org