Calling all demigods! It’s time to head back to Camp Half-blood with Hanson Creative’s The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical, on now at BackDock Arts. This mythical musical is beyond belief and will rise above all expectations.
Journey with Greek hero, Percy Jackson (Kyle Armstrong), as he goes on an epic adventure to find Zeus’s lightning bolt. Alongside his friends Annabeth (Aimee Sheather) and Grover (Elton Jun), the trio fight off monsters and sing themselves out of trouble in their quest to stop a war between the gods.
Based on the bestselling Percy Jackson series by Rick Riordan, The Lightning Thief embodies the nostalgic fun of the books. The musical is written by Joe Tracz, who’s known for his work on Netflix’s Dash & Lily and A Series of Unfortunate Events, as well as Disney’s Percy Jackson and the Olympians TV series.
Tracz skilfully balances the story’s childish humour with its more serious themes in a way that is thrilling to watch. The catchy music and lyrics by Rob Rokicki are emotionally rich and filled with a godly amount of energy that ensures there is never a dull moment.
Located in the heart of Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley, BackDock Arts is a hub of creativity with its vibrant graffiti courtyard and atmospheric lights. The theatre is intimate and relaxing with incredibly comfortable seats and a fully licensed bar behind the audience. It’s a fantastic place for a dramatic night in the city!
The cast and crew of The Lightning Thief are all strikingly talented. Producer and Director Emma Hanson is a well-organised machine, which is especially important for this chaotic musical. Her direction is active and energetic, and makes the small stage seem a whole lot bigger than it really is.
The Lightning Thief is nothing without its big musical numbers and impeccable group dances. On opening night, each song received a thunderous round of applause. From the electrifying The Day I Got Expelled to the classic Campfire Song, and the lively DOA, each dance is mesmerising.
Choreographer Anna Ryan doesn’t just amaze with her dancing skills, but also with her spot-on impression of camp director, Mr D. Her portrayal of the grumpy and boorish god will have everyone in stitches.
Kyle Armstrong stars as the heroic and charming Percy Jackson. He plays the famously sarcastic character with hilarious cluelessness. Armstrong shines during the tense, raw scenes where he balances the grief of losing his mother with the hope of seeing her again. His powerful voice commands the audience’s attention every time he takes centre stage.
Playing the smart and enthusiastic Annabeth is Aimee Sheather, who bounces across the stage with a childlike energy. Her peppy and determined portrayal of Annabeth makes her few moments of insecurity seem all the more emotionally complex. Sheather’s performance of My Grand Plan is beautifully hopeful and inspirational.
Elton Jun’s portrayal of Grover is a breath of fresh air. Playing the environmentalist satyr that is Percy’s best friend, Jun combats the serious fight scenes with his ditzy and optimistic acting.
Don’t miss the chance to see Percy Jackson and his friends onstage in Hanson Creative’s The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical. Playing for a limited time only, this modern-day epic is a feat that would amaze the gods.
The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical runs to 26 October at BackDock Arts. 103 Brunswick Street Fortitude Valley Qld 4006.
Tickets: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/backdockarts/1784614
Website: https://www.backdockarts.com/
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/hansoncreative/
Images supplied.
