Erie Playhouse's Youtheatre Strikes Again With The Lightning Thief

Contributed photo

The young cast, including Vexx Festa who is debuting as Percy Jackson, readies themselves for the latest Youtheatre production.

Premiering Friday, Nov. 11

Greek mythology has long been a fascination of young adults, and the first book in Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson and the Olympians series, The Lightning Thief, enthralled an entire generation. Released in 2005, it quickly became one of the most beloved pieces of young adult literature and received the Adult Library Services Association's Best Books for Young Adults award, among many others.

The Lightning Thief was turned into a play that was geared toward young audiences in 2014, and in 2017 it was turned into a 2 hour off-Broadway performance. It debuted on Broadway in 2019. Now, our young and talented Youtheatre is taking this mythological masterpiece to The LECOM Stage at the Playhouse. Dom DelGreco, the education director for the Erie Playhouse, says he's excited to be able to bring this show to life: "This musical is a great introduction into the Percy Jackson world. Our assistant director is a big fan of the series, so we won't let the fans of these books down."

When asked why Youtheatre is important to our community, DelGreco responds: "It's the marvelous ability to grant perspective. This can translate outside the walls of art, as well. It creates a community of understanding individuals." He continues, "This musical has the potential for us to bring to the forefront more important issues that are subtly touched on in the books and play: generational trauma, a search for youthful identity, and, despite Percy being a demigod, human emotions and problems."

With some of the youngest cast members in Youtheatre history, this youthful showing of talent won't be overshadowed by a lot of glitz and glam. This is going to feel like an emo-kid's first pop/punk show. The music and lighting will give the feeling of teenage angst, and that should hit home with the generation that grew up with Percy Jackson. Show your support for this amazing young cast, and give a warm welcome to Vexx Festa who is playing the role of Percy, as this will be his first stage appearance with the Erie Playhouse.

Fridays at 2 p.m., Saturdays at 2 p.m. or 7p.m., Sundays at 2 p.m. through Nov. 20  // Erie Playhouse, 13 W. 10th St. // $14.90 // All ages // For more information, please visit erieplayhouse.org