Leicester Curve – until Saturday 21 March 2026
Reviewed by Leanne W
4****
This stage adaptation of Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief captures the story’s momentum and humour with confidence, delivering a fast-paced evening that balances spectacle with heart. It’s a show that leans into its mythic adventure while keeping the focus firmly on character and connection. Based on the book by Rick Riordan, and the subsequent films, this is set to be a firm family favourite.
The set design (Ryan Dawson Laight) was particularly effective: industrial in look, but clever and versatile in execution. With simple transformations and smart staging choices, the same core structure shifted seamlessly between camp, classroom, roadway and underworld, keeping the action fluid and the storytelling clear.
The use of projections really enhanced the performance, expanding the world beyond the physical stage and sharpening the sense of place. They added texture and scale to key moments, supporting the pace of the storytelling without ever feeling like a distraction.
The energy of the young cast, under the direction of Lizzi Gee, was great to see, bringing an infectious drive to the fight choreography, comic beats and ensemble movement. Vasco Emauz is a strong Percy, ably supported by Cahir O’Neill as Grover and the fantastic Kayna Montecillo as Annabeth Chase. Simone Robinson was outstanding in all of her roles, with clear definition between each one and the addition of strong vocal ability. Many performers were multi-rolling, switching characters with impressive clarity and timing, which kept the production tight and constantly engaging.
Musically, with direction from Will Joy, the show lands well: there are plenty of uplifting songs that carry the adventure forward and leave the audience buoyed by the ensemble’s momentum. Standout numbers included “The Day I Got Expelled”, “Put You in Your Place” and “The Last Day of Summer”, each bringing a distinct lift in pace, humour and momentum. When the score shifts into more emotional territory, the feeling is palpable, and those quieter moments give the story a welcome depth.
Overall, Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief is an imaginative, high-energy production with strong visual storytelling and a committed ensemble at its centre. It’s a family show that will clearly delight fans of the books and films, and a great opportunity for young people to experience the magic of theatre. For anyone looking for a lively night at the theatre—packed with invention, warmth and songs that stick—this one is well worth catching.