Art in Motion Theatre Company are back at the Don Russell Performing Arts Centre with The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical—and as a family who love musical theatre and have devoured everything written by Rick Riordan, we were counting down the days until the show.
We arrived dressed in our finest orange and blue (as you do, IYKYK), and loved seeing so many audience members leaning into the fun—camp colours, hand-painted bead necklaces, the lot. This was an audience coming in with high expectations. Thankfully, this talented cast more than delivered.
The story follows Percy Jackson (Joshua Hollander), who discovers he’s a half-blood—his father is none other than Poseidon. After his life takes a sharp and unexpected turn, Percy finds himself at a camp for children of gods and mortals before heading off on a quest filled with monsters, riddles, and a race against time. Alongside Annabeth Chase (Una Minello) and Grover Underwood (Cosimo Trichelo), Percy must try to prevent a war among the gods.
No pressure.
The show runs for around two hours (plus intermission) and is fantastic value for a community theatre production. A huge congratulations to the cast—these performers can sing. As well as the 3 lead characters, hats off to the other performers who seamlessly transitioned between so many characters. The live band was incredible (and honestly, live music just lifts a show in a way nothing else can), their enthusiasm was contagious. This is Liam Tickner’s directorial debut, and what a strong one it is. The set design by Craig Delbridge is clever and effective, using simple elements to bring scenes to life (the statue garden was a standout). Costume designer Kylie Martin has also done a great job capturing the essence of each character.
I was asked before going, “Isn’t that for kids?”
And look… not no…
The recommendation is 13+, but if your younger kids are okay with some fight scenes, they’ll likely love it. The books are aimed at around 9+, and I’d happily take an 8 or 9-year-old. That said, this absolutely holds its own for adults—I’d have enjoyed it just as much without the kids (although I suspect I would never have been forgiven) and there were lots of adults there of all ages without children.
If you love Percy Jackson, mythology, urban fantasy, or just a good musical, this one is well worth your time. The show is still running from 16–18 April (with two performances on the 18th). You can find more information here: https://www.gosnells.wa.gov.au/news-events/events/lightning-thief
To book tickets to The Lightning Thief, please visit https://drpac.sales.ticketsearch.com/sales/salesevent/160626.
Photographer: Perfectly Picturesque Photography
