The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson musical delights audiences at Birmingham Hippodrome

Greek mythology is a fascinating spectacle for anyone interested in epic battles, romances and the search for good and evil. That’s why I was keen to get down to Birmingham Hippodrome’s theatre to see The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical.

As a child I absolutely devoured the novel series by Rick Riordian and of course loved the 2010 film starring Logan Lerman.

That’s why I was delighted when the story was brought to life in a fun, musical twist starring an array of talented actors who captivated an audience in Birmingham last week.

The show was directed by Lizzi Gee, with fantastic music from Rob Rokicki. From the outset, I was impressed by the creative set design which brought to life a story that sits at the intersection of modern life and a Greek mythical world.

Obviously transporting the casual viewer to not only Jackson’s connection with the water, but also infusing some mythical elements to the tale.

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In this rendition, the protagonist Percy Jackson (Vasco Emauz) grapples with the reality that his mother (Simone Robinson) has been harbouring a secret.

That secret is that Percy Jackson is the son of Poseidon who is the Greek God of the Sea, Earthquakes, and Storms, and is is one of the ‘Big Three’ Greek Gods along with Zeus and Hades.

A secret that reveals itself in many varied ways throughout his life, explaining how he struggled with school, as his dyslexia was due to his brain being hardwired to ancient Greek.

Vasco Emauz managed to captivate audiences with his fabulous song and dance throughout the production.

As well as, Grover (Cahir O’Neill) and Annabeth (Kayna Montecillo), who manage to keep Percy on track on his quest between good and evil.

Playing god of wine, Mr. D, RuPaul's Drag Race UK champion Danny Beard joined the cast as Mr. D. Danny who brought an electrifying stage presence to the legendary world of Camp Half-Blood.

The show took place at Birmingham Hippodrome.