Athletic Arts Center Shines with "The Lightning Thief (TYA) - The Percy Jackson Musical

Athletic Arts Center delivered an energetic and heartfelt production of *The Lightning Thief – The Percy Jackson Musical* at Bevill State Community College’s Rowland Auditorium, reaching audiences through both special school performances and community shows on February 28, 2026 and March 1, 2026.

From the opening number, the cast brought enthusiasm and charm to Percy Jackson’s journey, capturing both the humor and emotional depth of the story. Based on Rick Riordan’s beloved novel, the musical follows Percy as he discovers he is the son of a Greek god and sets out

on a quest to prevent a war among the gods. The performers skillfully balanced comedic moments with themes of courage, friendship, and self-acceptance.

The additional school performances allowed student audiences to experience live theatre in an engaging and accessible way, while the community performances welcomed families and local supporters to enjoy the production together. Across all performances, the cast demonstrated strong stage presence and a genuine connection to the material.

The show’s dynamic rock score added excitement and momentum, keeping audiences of all ages invested while reinforcing themes of identity, resilience, and belonging.

At its core, the production resonated through its message of embracing individuality. As noted by Maria Ross Campsey, owner of Athletic Arts Center, Percy is “an extraordinary hero – a young person navigating ADHD and dyslexia while searching for where he belongs.” That message came through powerfully, reminding audiences that differences can be strengths.

Overall, Athletic Arts Center’s production was a lively and meaningful theatrical experience that left a lasting impression on both student and community audiences alike.