Rick Riordan’s beloved demigod makes his way to UK stages in The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical, which has launched its first ever UK tour following a successful run at The Other Palace. With a book by Joe Tracz and music and lyrics by Rob Rokicki, this adaptation of the bestselling novel brings the mythological mayhem of Camp Half-Blood to life with a rock-infused score and a youthful energy that’s sure to delight fans of the original series.
The story follows Percy Jackson, a seemingly ordinary New York teenager who discovers he is the son of Poseidon. Thrust into a world of gods, monsters and ancient prophecies, Percy embarks on a quest to recover Zeus’s stolen lightning bolt and prevent an all-out war on Mount Olympus. Alongside his friends Annabeth and Grover, Percy navigates a perilous journey that tests his courage, loyalty and sense of identity.
Vasco Emauz leads the cast with a standout performance as Percy, capturing both the character’s vulnerability and heroism with ease. His vocals are particularly strong, anchoring the show’s eclectic score with confidence. Kayna Montecillo brings a sharp intelligence and strength to Annabeth, while Cahir O’Neill’s Grover provides much of the comic relief.
Yet, one of the production’s challenges lies in its struggle to strike a consistent tone. At times, the show leans heavily into slapstick and parody, only to pivot suddenly to moments of intense seriousness. This tonal imbalance can be disorienting, particularly in the second act, where the narrative pace accelerates rapidly. Key plot points are resolved so swiftly that they risk losing emotional impact, and those unfamiliar with the source material may find themselves scrambling to keep up.
That said, the production is visually interesting. Ryan Dawson Laight’s set and costume design, complemented by Matt Powell’s video design and Richard Pinner’s illusions, conjure a vivid world of gods and monsters. The underworld sequences are particularly effective, with projections and lighting creating a suitably eerie atmosphere. Lizzi Gee’s direction and choreography keep the action moving briskly, even when the script falters.
Musically, the show is a treat. Rokicki’s score blends rock, country and pop influences to create a soundtrack that is both catchy and character-driven. Numbers like “Good Kid” and “Son of Poseidon” stand out, offering emotional depth and showcasing the vocal talents of the cast.
Ultimately, The Lightning Thief is a fine adaptation that will undoubtedly resonate with younger audiences and die-hard fans of the books. While it may not fully satisfy those seeking a more polished or narratively cohesive musical, its heart is in the right place. With strong performances, a dynamic score and a message of friendship and self-belief, it’s a mythological adventure worth taking, even if it doesn’t quite reach Olympian heights.
The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical tour listings and ticket information can be found here.
