Is The Lightning Thief musical more than just a retelling of the novel?

After a successful National Tour, The Lightning Thief musical is coming to Broadway for a limited engagement. Can this story be more than just retelling of the novel?

As Broadway unveils more new shows, many younger theater fans are excited for The Lightning Thief musical to hit the Great White Way. Although the Broadway engagement is just a limited run, many people will be snapping up tickets to this popular musical. While many are fans of Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson books, this musical can be more than just a novel turned stage production.

The Lightning Thief novel tells the story of how Percy learns that he is a demigod, sending him on an elaborate quest during which he learns the value of friendship. Riordan wrote this book in honor of his son, and some of Percy’s characteristics reflect that reference. From Percy having ADHD to learning how to fit in with others, there are many social issues woven into the Greek gods storyline.

And adapting this story for the stage is quite interesting. Recently, musical theater has looked to children’s stories and popular books as inspiration. From the hugely successful SpongeBob musical to the continually sold out Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, these types of theatrical productions bring in a wide audience.

In a way, these themes help to keep Broadway evolving. Instead of catering to an older audience, writers and producers understand that a younger audience keeps the theater exciting. Without invigorating new life into the theater, the experience will become stagnant.

While the touring version of The Lightning Thief musical was very successful, it will be curious to see if the Broadway production will have modifications. Since this musical first debuted in 2017, there have been changes along the way.

Although I have not seen the touring production, after watching some videos and listening to the music, there seems to be similarities to two relatively recent musicals that were popular with younger audiences.

With Joe Tracz writing the book (he also wrote Be More Chill), there are many references to teenage issues. From social issues to mental health concerns, these topics are interwoven into the storyline. Although the original book didn’t necessarily call these topics out, the musical can bring them to light in a different way.

Just like Dear Evan Hansen spoke to audiences in a compassionate yet engaging manner, this musical could offer the same experience. While the topics can be heavy, the manner in which they are handled can be relatable.

Of course, heavy topics need a strong score and engaging visuals. Based on imagery, this musical looks to keep the audience engrossed. While the set might be sparse, the puppetry, bright colored scenes and high action moves are meant to keep the audience absorbed in every little aspect.

As some big-name productions are coming to the end of their Broadway run, the addition of The Lightning Thief could bring in good ticket sales. With a well-known story and a younger vibe, it has a lot to offer. After all, not everyone wants to see Moulin Rouge.

The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical is set to a 16-week run on September 20. Public sale tickets are available on August 21.

Are you excited for The Lightning Thief Musical? What book would you like to see transformed into a musical?