It’s not every day that a community theatre group tackles the Australian community theatre premiere of a cult Broadway rock musical, but Gosford Musical Society Juniors have never been ones to shy away from a challenge. The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical, based on the wildly popular novel by Rick Riordan, tells the story of a teenager who discovers he’s the son of Poseidon and must go on a quest to stop a war between the gods. Part road trip, part Greek tragedy, part high school coming-of-age story, it’s a wild ride — and this cast of young demigods dive in headfirst.

Sam Luxford’s direction keeps the storytelling clear and the action moving, with some clever stagecraft woven throughout. Particularly inspired was the use of the orchestra pit as the gates to the Underworld — simple but so effective. The whole stage was in play, allowing the cast to fill the space with energy and purpose. It’s great to see young performers given the room to explore, and they absolutely took up the challenge.

Marianne Powles leads a tight five-piece band through the rock-heavy score, no easy feat for any musical director. There’s real musical talent on display, but at times the sound levels didn’t quite land — the underscoring occasionally swallowed lyrics and dialogue. That said, the drive and pace from the band kept the show’s momentum alive throughout.

Erin Hobden and Hannah Kelly’s choreography was well-pitched for the junior ensemble. It added dynamic movement to the group numbers without overwhelming anyone, giving the production a unified, polished feel. Whether battling monsters or celebrating at Camp Half-Blood, the ensemble moved with confidence and cohesion.

Kaia Helle and her costume team deserve serious kudos — the costumes were vibrant, inventive, and perfectly balanced between myth and modernity. Every character was instantly readable, and there were some brilliant touches in the gods’ and monsters’ designs. Likewise, Cody Swansbra’s sets made the most of the space, shifting locations efficiently while anchoring the show’s magical realism.

The cast is a committed and supportive ensemble — it’s clear these young performers have each other’s backs. While the rock score sometimes demanded more vocal power than they could muster, they made up for in heart and character.

Ronan Hutchens is a natural character actor, pulling focus with every appearance as both Gabe and Poseidon — sleazy in one, hilariously dorky in the other. Nina-Juliet Foa’i Auimatagi brought gravitas as the Oracle, while Larna Duddy and Lachlan Herd were deliciously villainous as Clarisse and Luke. Tania Morton was wonderfully warm as Sally Jackson, and Lachlan McMahon channelled a cranky Bea Arthur with great comedic timing as Mr D. Special mention to Sebastian Miller, whose deep voice and steady presence as Chiron grounded the show with quiet authority.

The central trio — Broc Diffin as Grover Underwood, Matilda Whitwell as Annabeth Chase, and Isaac Eddy as Percy Jackson (also played by Cooper Herd in alternate shows) — were a rock-solid foundation. Like all great trios, they sang, danced, and acted with commitment and charisma, driving the heart of the show from start to finish.

It’s thrilling to see GMS Juniors taking a risk on a fresh, contemporary title. The Lightning Thief is no easy beast — but this team tackles it with gusto. Central Coast audiences should support shows like this, because this is where future stars are made — and where the love of theatre truly begins.

– The other Daniel Craig

Daniel Craig is an international performer and has established himself as a trusted theatre specialist on the Sydney Arts Scene. While he understands the technical side of theatre, Dan writes for the everyday theatregoer (unlike some of those more prominent publications). When not in the audience, he loves to travel the world trying new gin. Follow him on all the socials @talldancraig

The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical runs for 2 hours 10 minutes (with 20-minute interval) and plays at the Laycock Street Community Theatre, through 12 July 2025. Tickets are available through the Laycock Street Theatre.

Disclosure: The Plus Ones were guests of Gosford Musical Society
Image credit: James Beggs Imaging