The Lightning Thief
at Upper Darby School District

Reviewed on April 9, 2022

Anya Durand
Academy of the New Church
Submitted for publication to WordPress Site and Cappies Page

In a world in which fiction becomes reality and imminent death and failure are approaching, a young boy is thrown into a world in which he is ignorant and afraid. Upper Darby High School's performance of "The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical" sheds a unique light on the childhood favorite.

"The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical," based on the book by Rick Riordan, originated its run off-Broadway for limited performances. It has since been most notably touring nationally in the United States and is set to return for another return post the quarantine of the COVID-19 virus that ended its last showing.

The story follows young Percy Jackson, played by Phoenyx Hawkins, the half-blood son of Poseidon who is thrown into the world of gods and monsters after being attacked on a school field trip. He is then forced into a quest in which he must prove his innocence in the debate over Zeus's missing thunderbolt to stop a war between the gods. Hawkins was challenged with an unforgiving script and a complete lack of blackouts throughout the show, yet managed to carry almost the entire show's energy. They were on stage nearly the entire show and not once broke character or faltered in keeping the audience interested. Their tone and breath support during both their mix and falsetto were clean, well thought out, and nothing short of masterful.

Notable among Percy's leading performance was that of Kenneth Bruce as Luke and Alana Gangadeen as Annabeth. Bruce's technical execution of his stunningly rich vocals and well-thought-out mannerisms were a thrill to watch, and Gangadeen's clear and supported mix had both smoothness and fierceness necessary to pull off the character. In addition, Clarisse's (Sara McGrenra) poignant and powerful mix and belt and Mr. D's (Jeremiah Ortiz) hilarious portrayal of a sour middle-aged man who desperately needs a drink were shining gems within a chorus that lacked energy and enthusiasm for most of the show.

The orchestration backed up a chorus with standout performances from featured dancers and ensembles, such as Emma Gonsalves or the D.O.A. ensemble.

The technical aspects of the show included a creative and well-executed series of lighting cues as well as an efficient stage crew whose only faltering was through moving loud sets that challenged the actors on stage.

Upper Darby High School's performance of "The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical" was a unique and memorable performance of a childhood favorite, and served as a humorous work of childhood nostalgia.

Aiden Kaliner
Harriton High School
Submitted for publication to WordPress Site and Cappies Page

Translating a childhood fantasy to the stage is no easy feat, yet, Upper Darby High School's production of "The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical" did the unthinkable: they brought the Greek gods to real life!

Based on the best-selling novel by Rick Riordan, "The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical" tells the tale of an outcast, fatherless, teenager, Percy Jackson, who wants nothing more than to be understood. When his substitute teacher turns into a raging Fury, a demon from the Underworld, Percy's life turns upside down as he learns about his true identity--he is a half-blood. After arriving at Camp Half-Blood, Percy and his newfound friends, Annabeth and Grover, set off on a quest to retrieve Zeus' missing lightning bolt while coming into his own.

Upper Darby High School's production of "The Lightning Thief" was impressive because of the talented leading and supporting characters. Although the ensemble dipped in energy at times, the leading actors consistently delivered enthusiasm and captivating performances.

Phoenyx Hawkins, who played the iconic Percy Jackson, stole the show with their melodic vocals and childhood charm. Their portrayal of Percy was genuine and nuanced, filled with humor and snark when needed. Their comedic timing and dedication to the role was evident and admirable.

The rest of the supporting cast was as entertaining and talented as well. Kenneth Bruce (Luke) quickly became a crowd favorite with his jaded persona, refined tapping skills, and soaring vocals. Bruce's stage presence was undeniable as he captivated the audience's attention throughout the production. Meanwhile, Alana Gangadeen (Annabeth) was a stand-out vocalist. Her incredible vocal technique and thoughtful performance in "My Grand Plan" was a memorable and show-stopping moment in Act II. Other performers, including Josh Atkinson (Mr. Brunner/Chiron), Sara McGrenra (Clarisse), and Jeremiah Ortiz (Mr. D/Dionysus) displayed phenomenal talent, in dance, vocals, and comedy, respectively.

The technical aspects of the show, supported by the prepared stage management duo, Briona Kelly and Evelynn Deus, was nothing short of amazing. Most notably, the lighting design, by John Troy, helped to dramatize moments and convey the varying atmospheres and places the story takes place in. Whether it be the disco-land of the Underworld or the fauna of the woods, Troy's thoughtful designs were effective and visually appealing.

Upper Darby High School's production of "The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical" showcased many talented and electrifying performances and made audiences want to scream "Bring on the Monsters!"

Clara Steege
Conestoga High School
Submitted for publication to Cappies Page

What happens when you combine Greek mythology, adolescent drama, and song? Why, you get "The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical," of course! Upper Darby High School's production combined all of these aspects masterfully, turning out a show that truly enthralled their audience.

"The Lightning Thief" began as a hit book series by author Rick Riordan, first published in 2005. It quickly rose in popularity, and was adapted into a movie, graphic novel, and television series, in addition to a musical. The plot centers around Percy Jackson, a demigod with a mortal mother and deity father. After several alarming run-ins with monsters, Percy finds a community of fellow demigods at Camp Halfblood, and is quickly thrust action with a dangerous quest. As Percy learns to navigate this dynamic new world, he forges strong bonds with everyone he meets along the way.

It's certainly a challenge to take on such a well-beloved story, but Upper Darby rose to the occasion. The cast truly embodied the lively spirit of the show, especially during group numbers like "Campfire Song" and "D.O.A.," and their performance was complemented perfectly by outstanding tech which brought the mythological elements to life.

Leading the cast as Percy, Phoenyx Hawkins masterfully combined their character's adolescent inexperience with bravery and conviction. In addition to strong singing, they did a particularly good job of conveying their character's changing emotion. At their side as Percy's best friend, the satyr Grover, Charles Jones added humor with excellent comedic timing and physicality. Rounding out the group of Percy's closest Camp Half-Blood friends, both Alana Gangadeen (Annabeth) and Kenneth Bruce (Luke) took turns stealing the stage with their fabulous vocals and acting. Gangadeen's perfect level of attitude and Bruce's well-executed character development were especially notable.

Other Camp Half-Blood standouts included Sara McGrenra as Clarisse, Josh Atkinson as Mr. Brunner/Chiron, and Jeremiah Ortiz as Mr. D/Dionysus. All three added so much dimension to their roles with charismatic mannerisms. It's also important to point out that the entire cast executed the involved choreography quite well – in particular, the tappers in "Another Terrible Day," and all of the fight sequences were quite entertaining.

In terms of the technical aspects, the overall stage management was exceptionally smooth, which was especially noticeable during the efficient scene transitions. Additionally, an incredible set, props, and costumes helped to complete the mythological setting – particularly the effective use of projections for effects like lighting as well as elaborate monster costumes and weapons. Thoughtful lighting further enhanced the action by setting the mood for different scenes, even assigning different colors to highlight different characters.

Upper Darby High School's admirable efforts to nail every aspect of the show were well worth it; they definitely succeeded in bringing Percy Jackson's story to life onstage.

Lucy Duan
Abington Friends School
Submitted for publication to Cappies Page

"Are the gods real?" The answer is "yes" on the stage of "The Lightning Thief." The Upper Darby High School cast and crews brought us through the wonderful adventure of Percy Jackson.

Based on the novel by Rick Riordan, "The Lightning Thief" is a story about a teenage boy's discovery of his identity as a Demigod and his quest, along with his two friends, Annabeth and Grover, to find the stolen lightning and save his mother.

The musical is challenging to produce, yet the Upper Darby cast confronted the challenge. They presented the sword fight in "Put You In Your Place" with precise execution and contagious energy. They brought in innovative tap dance in the number "Another Terrible Day." For featured actress Sara McGrenra who plays Clarisse, she is in her character as the daughter of Ares even inside acting. With the whole cast composed of strong vocalists and dancers, the musical is genuinely an auditory and visual cheesecake.

Percy Jackson, the rising Demigod struggling with his identity, was brought to life by Phoenix Hawkins with their talented acting and brilliant vocal. Hawkins impressively portrayed the character's growth and developed remarkable chemistry with Annabeth, played by Alana Gangadeen. Despite their ambiguous intimate, they are foils to each other, elevating Annabeth's craving for recognition in "My Grand Plan" as Gangadeen presented with her dazzling voice.

In the wondrous world of "The Lightning Thief," there are many other essential characters. The casts embraced their roles and delivered them with energy: Luke (Charles Jones) a dynamic character that betrayed Percy Jackson in the "Last Day of Summer," Grover (Charles Jones), a trusting friend with a memorable performance in "Tree on a Hill," and Mr. D (Jeremiah Ortiz) and Mr. Brunner (Josh Atkinson) the two teachers who especially added to the comedic aspect of the show. Without them, the show would definitely not be the same.

The technical aspects of the show were amazing. The swords and daggers and other props by John Peter Quillen allowed the audience to be in the story. The lighting cooperated seamlessly with the screen and utilized the simple set to the maximum. For example in "Son of Poseidon," the audiences truly feel conquered by the power of the ocean.

As the curtain fall and the lights dim, the audiences will find them returning from a long and beautiful dream created by the Upper Darby School District.