The GHVS Players will bring the beloved world of “The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical” to the Lindenwold Moose Lodge from Thursday to Sunday, Dec. 5 to 8.
Based on Rick Riordan’s bestselling novel, the musical follows teenage Percy Jackson as he embarks on an epic journey to retrieve the Greek god Zeus’ stolen lightning bolt, uncover his demi-god identity and prevent a catastrophic war among the gods.
Led by musical director Gabrielle Horvitz – with choreography by Jennifer Morris Grasso – the production features 33 young performers ages 11 to 18.
“This production has been an exciting journey,” Horvitz noted. “The entire cast has truly embraced Greek mythology and connected deeply with Percy Jackson’s story, which is beloved by so many young audiences.”
The show’s blend of pop and rock music – combined with ancient mythology – gives the production a modern edge, according to production assistant Jennifer Gaffney.
“The high-energy rock and pop mirrors the fast pace of Percy’s adventures and the intensity of his emotions as he navigates a world full of gods, monsters, and powerful identities,” she explained. “Those rock and pop elements give youthful, edgy, and rebellious vibes that fit perfectly with the personalities and struggles of these characters.”
The show’s choreography is a mix of disco, sword fights and mythical battles. Grasso’s work has left a strong impression on the production team, according to Gaffney.
“The choreography that Jennifer Grasso has created for this show is so unbelievably enjoyable to watch,” Gaffney said. “One number that brought tears to my eyes was ‘Tree on the Hill.’ The song paired with the choreography reached great depths for me.”
The production’s themes of identity, self-acceptance and friendship are meant to resonate deeply with a young audience, as well as a youthful cast.
“This show is so powerful with its messaging,” Gaffney explained. “The teens in our cast are figuring out who they are, facing pressure to conform and discovering their strengths and weaknesses. They are learning to embrace their differences, realizing that the challenges they face don’t define them, but instead make them strong and capable.”
Eastern High senior Jaslene Williams – who plays the fierce warrior, Clarisse, and Charon, the ferryman of the underworld – discussed preparation for her dual roles.
“When I was cast as Clarisse and Charon, I realized they both have tough personalities and don’t let anything get in their way,” Williams observed. “To get into character for Clarisse, I close my eyes for about five minutes to channel her edge and power. For Charon, I think about a diva: Beyoncé really helps me get into character for that role.”
Eastern sophomore Hanna Swartz, who portrays Percy’s mother, Sally, addressed the emotional depth of the production.
“The story holds such an impact of rushing to conclusions, and the music helps with the sense of panic as a teenager,” she pointed out. “The journey of self-discovery for several characters is woven into the music, which captures each character’s experiences and emotions.”
A tireless worker behind the scenes, Gaffney described her favorite moments in staging “The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical.”
“My favorite part has been all of the fun that happens behind the scenes,” she remarked. “Watching everything come together – especially the creative costuming – is magical … The love and support they (cast members) have for one another is beautiful.”
Gaffney also wants to make sure the show sends powerful messages of identity and friendship.
“Whether our audience is younger or older,” she said, “I hope they take away the messaging about learning to embrace their differences The challenges they face don’t define them; instead, they make them strong and capable.”
Tickets for the show are available at ghvsplayers.com.
!
