MYTHS. MONSTERS. MUSIC. MAGIC.

Hunter Drama is thrilled to announce its latest high-voltage production — The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical — landing at The Playhouse, Civic Theatre Newcastle from August 7 to 16, 2025. Based on the bestselling novel by Rick Riordan, this electrifying musical adaptation makes its Newcastle premiere with an all-star creative team and a cast packed with young local talent.

Directed by award-winning theatre maker Lauren Harvey, and musically directed by renowned performer and vocal coach Marty Worrall, this production promises a theatrical experience like no other — where Greek mythology crashes headfirst into modern-day mayhem, and the gods of Olympus aren’t the only ones causing trouble.

When Percy Jackson discovers he’s a demigod — the half-blood son of Poseidon — his world turns upside down. Banished from school (again), he’s sent on an epic quest to find Zeus’ missing lightning bolt and prevent a war among the gods. Packed with monsters, mayhem, and a killer rock score, The Lightning Thief is a fast-paced adventure that captures the imagination of audiences of all ages.

“This cast is phenomenal — it’s why I signed up in the first place,” says Lauren Harvey, who brings a wealth of experience from previous Hunter Drama blockbusters like School of Rock, Seussical, and Oliver! “This show has it all — action, heart, humour, magic — and we’re bringing some big ideas and fast-paced energy to The Playhouse.”

Harvey acknowledges the unique challenge of staging such a mythical spectacle in an intimate venue. “We’re having a lot of fun creating mystical, magical moments up close — and I think audiences are going to love how immersive it feels.”

Musical Director Marty Worrall, a familiar face on Newcastle stages, agrees: “It’s a fun, action-packed theatre experience full of great songs, an epic journey, and real heart. Oh — and monsters. There are monsters.”

Worrall, a passionate advocate for youth in performance, says audiences can expect to see the themes of neurodiversity and diversity shine through in a story that speaks to young people with courage, humour, and empathy. “The show already incorporates these ideas so well. Our job is to honour that and let the young cast take the spotlight.”

And for long-time fans of the books?

“We hope to do you proud,” says Harvey. “From Camp Half-Blood to the Underworld, we’re bringing your favourite characters and moments to life with respect and a whole lot of energy.”

With a run of just eleven performances, tickets to The Lightning Thief are expected to sell fast. Whether you’re a die-hard Percy Jackson fan or new to the world of gods and demigods, this is a show that promises laughter, thrills, unforgettable music — and a theatre experience like no other.

DATES: August 7-16
VENUE: The Playhouse, Civic Theatre Newcastle
TICKETS: https://civictheatrenewcastle.com.au/what-s-on/all-shows/the-lightning-thief-the-percy-jackson-musical

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