Words by Jenny Lynn Davis | Cover Image by Al Blanton
Athletic Arts Center is excited to present The Lightning Thief – The Percy Jackson Musical on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at 7:00 PM and Sunday, March 1, 2026, at 2:00 PM. The performances will take place at Bevill State Community College’s Rowland Auditorium.
The Lightning Thief brings Rick Riordan’s beloved novel to the stage with humor, heart, and electric energy. When Percy Jackson learns he is the son of a Greek god, he sets out on a daring quest to stop a war among the gods, supported by friends who help him uncover courage, loyalty, and the power of embracing what makes him unique. Driven by a dynamic rock score and lively storytelling, the musical connects with audiences of all ages while exploring meaningful themes of identity, resilience, and belonging in a way that feels both exciting and accessible.
“The Percy Jackson audiences will meet is an extraordinary hero – a young person navigating ADHD and dyslexia while searching for where he belongs. So many kids will see themselves in this story and be reminded that the qualities that set them apart can also become their greatest strengths,” says Maria Ross Campsey, owner of Athletic Arts Center.
Music Director and Costume Designer Cindy Laing adds, “Bringing this story to life on stage and capturing the mythology and magic between our world and that of the Greek gods has been an incredible creative journey for all involved.”
General admission tickets are available for $11.50 for seniors and children and $16.50 for adults. Tickets can be purchased online at athleticartsctr.com/performances or at the door on the day of the show.
The Lightning Thief is written by Joe Tracz, adapted from the book “The Lightning Thief” by Rick Riordan, with music by Rob Rokicki. Orchestrations by Wiley DeWeese and Rob Rokick. This show was originally commissioned, created and produced Off Broadway by TheatreWorksUSA. The Lightning Thief – The Percy Jackson Musical Theatre for Young Audiences (TYA) adaptation is presented through a special arrangement with Concord Theatrical, which supplies all authorized performance materials. For more information, please visit concordtheatricals.com.
Located in Jasper, Alabama, Athletic Arts Center is dedicated to providing high-quality dance and performing arts training for children and adults, nurturing artistic expression, and fostering community collaboration. For over 19 years, the organization has delivered on its mission through diverse classes and performance opportunities.
Athletic Arts Center’s impressive production history includes 17 years of The Nutcracker and shows such as Annie Kids (2015), Dear Edwina Jr. (2016), The Little Mermaid Jr. (2017), Seussical Jr. (2019), Frozen Jr.(2020), Scenes From A Quarantine (2021), Honk! Jr. (2022), Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical Jr. (2023), Annie Jr. (2024), and Disney’s Descendants The Musical (2025).
In addition, Athletic Arts Center has collaborated with the Walker County Arts Alliance, Bevill State Community College, and Walker Community Theatre to produce acclaimed shows including Annie (2011), The Music Man (2012), High School Musical Jr. (2013), High School Musical 2 Jr. (2014), Broadway Time Machine – A Musical Review (2015), Cinderella Kids (2016), I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change(2016), Madagascar Jr. (2018), Always…Patsy Cline (2023). WL
