Being Different Makes You Stronger

The cast of the Lightning Thief. Photo by Johan Persson.

The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical, at the Belgrade Theatre, Coventry from 14 – 18 October. Music and lyrics by Rob Rokicki and directed and choreographed by Lizzi Gee. 

Review by Heidi Barber.

This first-ever UK tour of the Percy Jackson musical is based on the bestselling book series written by Rick Riordan (with over 180 million copies sold worldwide). Percy Jackson’s story has been adapted into both films and a major hit TV series for Disney+. 

Teenager Percy (Vasco Emauz) is finding life a struggle. He has repeatedly been expelled from various schools and feels that nobody understands him, especially his bullying stepdad. On a school trip to learn more about Greek mythology, he dreams about battling a ferocious minotaur only to discover that the dream was in fact a reality and the minotaur had killed his mother. 

Kayna Montecillo, Alex Anderton, Vasco Emauz and Simone Robinson - Photo Johan Persson.

Shortly after this somewhat traumatic experience, Percy discovers that he is in-fact, the half-blood son of the Greek god, Poseidon, and his life takes a dramatic turn as he is plunged into a world much bigger than he could possibly have imagined. He wakes up in a camp full of other half bloods and embarks on a quest to find his mother in the underworld; otherwise known as Los Angeles of course!

With newly discovered powers and two new best friends, he is unable to control an unknown destiny and has to learn what it means to be a hero. 

The cast’s enthusiasm carries the show with Vasco bringing a mix of wide-eyed sarcasm and sincerity that makes him instantly likable. Annabeth’s (Kayna Montecillo) determination and Grover’s (Alex Anderton) goofy loyalty round out a trio that feels genuinely youthful and relatable. Despite the mythological chaos, these characters never lose their emotional grounding.

Alex Anderton, Vasco Emauz and Kayna Montecillo- Photo by Johan Persson.

The staging is both clever and minimalist—Greek monsters are brought to life through inventive puppetry, lighting, and quick costume changes rather than heavy CGI or spectacle. That DIY quality actually enhances the show’s charm.

What truly makes The Lightning Thief stand out is its spirit. The musical speaks directly to kids who grew up feeling like outsiders and reminds them that even misfits can be heroes. In the end, The Lightning Thief is less about Greek mythology and more about the power of belonging. It’s messy, loud, and heartfelt—just like Percy himself.

For tickets go to: https://www.belgrade.co.uk/events/lightning-thief/