Howard Payne University’s Department of Theatre is bringing the world of Percy Jackson to Brownwood with three performances of The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical during the university’s Homecoming celebration Oct. 2-4.
The musical will be presented at HPU’s Mims Auditorium. Friday, Oct. 2, and Saturday, Oct. 3, performances begin at 7:30 p.m. A final performance is scheduled for Sunday, Oct. 4, at 2:30 p.m. Audience members of all ages are invited.
Admission is $5 per person. Tickets will be available at the door and online through the registration link on Howard Payne’s Homecoming webpage at hputx.edu/homecoming.
A student production inspired by Rick Riordan’s novel
Adapted from Rick Riordan’s bestselling novel The Lightning Thief, the production features a cast of Howard Payne students. The show combines fantasy and comedy while following the Percy Jackson story that has become familiar to readers, movie audiences and television viewers.
Dr. Nicholas Ewen, chair of HPU’s Department of Theatre, associate professor of theatre, artistic director and designer, said the cast has been eager to develop the production since auditions were announced last spring. The students’ familiarity with the Percy Jackson books, movies and series has also added a sense of nostalgia to the project.
The theatre program began the semester with a “Camp Half-Blood” retreat modeled after Percy Jackson’s experiences in the novel. Activities included capture the flag, sword-combat training and choreography.
Cast, crew and musical leadership
Starring in the production are Dariany Cottle, Tyler Craft, Preston Edge, Eliana Fauley, Ana Faulk, Matthew Frazier, Aletheia Grant, Audrie Grimes, John Wyatt Hardy, Kelsi Harrison, Madison Jenkins, C. Michael Jones, Lily King, Taylor Leonard, Nathan Litton, Crista Mallory, Roman Mills, Rebekah Moreno, Kayla Pointer, Eliana Range, Aaron Smith, Rachel Smith, Nathan Weems, Samantha Whitaker and Jordan White.
Student crew members are Shadia Herrera, Lauren Phelps, Katherine Richards, Madison Youngblood and Colt Youngblood. Dr. Christopher Rosborough, HPU associate professor of music and director of choral activities, serves as music director and conductor.
Ewen said the production demanded long hours and substantial work from the students, but described the experience as an opportunity for the Brownwood community to share in the cast’s journey. Because the show has only three performances, he encouraged residents to plan ahead.
Questions about the performances may be directed to Ewen at [email protected]. The university’s Homecoming webpage includes additional information and the full schedule of Homecoming events.
About Howard Payne University
Founded in 1889, Howard Payne is a Christ-centered liberal arts university in Brownwood. The university says it offers more than 100 majors, minors and pre-professional programs across six schools and serves students at three locations, with academic, student-life, athletics and service opportunities.