The BPCC Performing Arts Theatre Program proudly announces the opening of its 2024-2025 season with The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical. Directed by BPCC Theatre Program Director Ray Scott Crawford and choreographed by Laura Nugent, this dynamic production promises to deliver an exhilarating theatrical experience.

Showtimes are set for October 24, 25, 26, 31 and November 1, 2 at 7:30 PM, with matinees on October 27 and November 3 at 2:00 PM. All performances will take place in the Stephen W. Slaughter Theatre, located in Building C on the BPCC Campus at 6220 East Texas Street, Bossier City, LA.

This musical adaptation of Rick Riordan’s bestselling novel, which made its Broadway debut in 2019, follows the thrilling adventures of Percy Jackson, the half-blood son of a Greek god. With powers beyond his control, Percy embarks on a quest to return Zeus’s stolen lightning bolt, prevent a war between the gods, and discover his true destiny. The production features an electrifying rock score by Rob Rokicki and a book by Joe Tracz.

Director Ray Scott Crawford shared his enthusiasm for the upcoming season opener:

"This spectacular Broadway musical presents many exciting challenges for our students and our technical staff to meet,” Crawford said. “Bringing these beloved characters to stage while creating the mythology and the magic between this world and that of the gods requires a particular level of creativity and fun. Our students are having a blast, and I bet our audiences will as well. This is a great way to start a season!" 

Sophomore performing arts student Ja’Siah Jackson, who plays Percy Jackson, expressed his excitement about taking on the lead role.

"This is my second year at Bossier Parish Community College, and I love being part of the performing arts program,” Jackson said. “Acting is part of who I am, and I'm excited to play Percy Jackson in my fourth show here, bringing this epic demigod quest to life."

In addition to Jackson, the cast includes Riley Burns (Annabeth), Colby Garrett (Grover), Ryan Vallia-Towe (Mr. D (Dionysus)/Gabe), Mike Elmore (Poseidon/Kronos/Kurt Cobain), Trey Upton (Luke), Julia Parr (Sally Jackson/Charon), Sam Copeland (Mr. Brunner/Chiron), Sarah Foster (Mrs. Dodds/Auntie Em), MC Carpenter (Clarisse), Chaz Hudson (Ares), and Alexis Tisby (Oracle).

Additional performers include Mikayla Policastro, Blaine Fultz, Alexia Allen, Isaiah Chatman, Logan Pudak, Mikayla Hicks, Amya Brown, and Madison Barfield.      

The technical crew for this production is led by David White as Technical Director and Rona Leber as Costume Designer. BPCC student Alexis Rhodes will serve as Stage Manager, assisted by Erica Brooks and Meredith Treece. Kelsea Lee is the Music Technician. Ellen Douglas serves as Combat Assistant, alongside Dance Captain Jordan Holmes. The student technicians team includes Lucie McDearpont, Brody Hines, Collin Odom, and Jason Prothro/Bamburg.

Tickets for The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical are $20 and can be reserved by visiting bpcc.edu/theatre. This production is recommended for children who can sit independently and older audiences. We kindly request that infants not be brought into the theatre to ensure the best experience for all attendees.

Audiences are also invited to explore the full lineup of BPCC Theatre’s 2024-2025 season, which will include a variety of productions ranging from modern favorites to timeless classics. For a complete schedule and details on upcoming shows, visit www.bpcc.edu/theatre.

For additional information, contact the Box Office Manager at 318-678-6021 or via email at theatre@bpcc.edu.