By Lara Gonzalez
Adapted from the best-selling novel The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan, The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical is an action-packed mythical adventure for audiences of all ages.
The Plot
Percy Jackson is a demigod; the son of a Greek God and mortal. In this thrilling original rock score with music and lyrics by Rob Rokicki and book by Joe Tracz, Percy stumbles through teenage challenges from challenging teachers to smelly Step-Dad…as well as the more unusual obstacles of a charging minotaur, screeching furies, and the pit of Tartarus. When Zeus’ master lightning bolt is stolen and Percy becomes the prime suspect, he has to find and return the bolt to prove his innocence and prevent a war between the gods.
The Production Team
The Lightning Thief is enjoyable from start to finish–and filled to the brim with energy. The physicality of this show is amazing! Between dance choreography of Jessica Harris, and the Fight choreography of Sam Yousuf, the actors in The Lightning Thief are in near constant motion. Under the Direction of CCM Professor Rachel Stevens, the half-blood teenagers are relatable while the Gods, Teachers, and Monsters bring over the top humor and entertainment. The harmonies, tone, and cohesive sound Music Director Rosamund Hencinski creates are a delight.
The Patricia Corbett Theater is a professional setting equal to touring Broadway productions. The Lightning Thief takes full advantage of this; leveraging an offstage live pit orchestra, multipurpose moving set pieces, and a brilliant background of LED screens which Media Designer Maddi Myer leverages to show the mythical settings and environments of the story.
The Leads
The lead role of Percy Jackson is played by Griffin Simmons. Simmons’ Percy is a great portrayal of teenage enthusiasm, awkwardness, and sincerity. Joey Baciocco brings to life Chiron/Poseidon/Ensemble. Baciocco’s rich baritone voice brings a level of maturity to Chiron. His British flair is even more enjoyable when we get to watch Joey dance and prance around the stage.
The Lightning Thief is filled with excellent ensemble moments. The blending of voices across the company is divine, and the precision of dance and motion is a true delight. I would be remiss if I didn’t call out the featured ensemble of three: the characters of Percy (Griffin Simmons), Annabeth (Arden Allmon) and Grover (Sam Yousuf) have moments throughout the show where the trio takes center stage. In particular, the opening of Act 2 is a show stopper!
Bottom Line
The Lightning Thief is a high-energy rock musical for kids of all ages. This two hour show is a feast for the eyes and ears.
Get Tickets to The Lightning Thief
The Lightning Thief:The Percy Jackson Musical is presented for 1 weekend only at the Patricia Corbett Theater, located in CCM Village of the University of Cincinnati. Tickets: $36 adult, $20 student, $15 UC faculty/staff, $10 UC student, $5 CCM students. Performances are
- 8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24 (including ASL interpretation)
- 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25
- 8 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25
Purchase tickets online at ccmonstage.universitytickets.com or over the phone at 513-556-4183.
