Bordentown Regional High School Brings ‘The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical’ to Life with Award-Winning Student Performances – Two Shows at 2PM & 630PM

Bordentown Regional High School students once again demonstrated their exceptional talent with a memorable production of The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical, adapted from Rick Riordan’s beloved book series. Performed in March 2022 at the Bordentown Performing Arts Center, the show captivated audiences with a dynamic blend of live music, engaging performances, and technically impressive stagecraft. The production not only entertained but also earned accolades, including Cappie Awards recognizing outstanding student achievements in theater. For more coverage of local theater and student productions, the theatre section on Explore New Jersey offers updates, features, and listings.

The musical follows Percy Jackson, a seemingly ordinary teenager, as he discovers that he is a demigod and is thrust into an epic quest to recover Zeus’s stolen lightning bolt. Along the way, Percy encounters gods, mythical creatures, and challenges that test his courage, loyalty, and sense of identity. The story’s themes of self-discovery, family, and belonging resonate strongly with students and younger audiences, making it a perennial favorite for school theater productions. Bordentown’s adaptation infused the narrative with a modern rock score, creative choreography, and visually striking lighting design, making the adventure both thrilling and emotionally compelling.

The 2022 production highlighted the school’s commitment to integrating multiple student talents into a cohesive performance. Live musicians played alongside the cast, enhancing the energy and immediacy of the show, while the technical team delivered sophisticated lighting and stage effects that transformed the set into the mythical world of Greek gods and monsters. This collaborative approach not only showcases individual student abilities but also teaches teamwork, stagecraft, and the intricacies of professional-level theater production in a high school setting.

The Bordentown students’ dedication and skill earned critical recognition. Brynn Bowyer received a Cappie Award for Outstanding Leading Actress, while other cast members earned nominations for Outstanding Vocalist and Leading Actor. These honors reflect both the students’ individual performances and the overall excellence of the production, reinforcing Bordentown Regional High School’s reputation as a leader in student theater arts. The school’s ability to successfully balance technical innovation, live music, and compelling storytelling sets a benchmark for high school productions throughout New Jersey.

The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical also serves as a prime example of how school theater programs can inspire creativity and community engagement. Audiences of all ages were drawn to the excitement of Percy’s journey, while student performers gained invaluable experience in acting, music, and stage production. Productions like this underscore the importance of arts education in New Jersey, offering students opportunities to hone their talents and contribute to the vibrant local theater scene. For parents, educators, and theater enthusiasts, Bordentown Regional High School’s shows are a testament to the transformative power of student-led performance, combining entertainment, education, and community pride in one unforgettable experience.