In Redmond, “The Lightning Thief – The Percy Jackson Musical” opens Aug. 14 with performances on six dates at High Desert Music Hall. The story is adapted from the first book of author Rick Riordan’s Percy Jackson series. Jackson has a troubled childhood until he discovers that he is a child of a Greek god. After meeting other half-blood demi-god kids like himself, he makes new friends and embarks on a wild journey of quests, betrayals, prophecies and more. The musical is rated PG for fantasy violence and themes.
Meadow Sky Productions is producing the musical. The company formed last year with a mission of entertaining audiences as well as paying performers. Founder David Purkey says “The Lightning Thief” is a project dear to his heart. “This story and Percy Jackson’s character in particular are especially meaningful to me as someone with some mental disabilities diagnosed later in my own life that match Percy’s, including ADHD. I hope, as a part of bringing this wonderful adventure to the stage, to inspire audiences not only with heroic tales but also with a simple message that each person innately has value just as they are.”
Meadow Sky Productions doesn’t have a regular venue. “While both my wife and I are based in Bend as are many of our actors, it’s unfortunately very difficult to find available performance venues that are affordable,” Purkey wrote in an email to the Source. “We’re actively looking for the right fit for a long-term home (anyone should reach out if they have a performance space that wants to partner long-term!).”
Meadow Sky Productions says only two other local groups pay actors and crew. He says directors, assistant directors, costumers, choreographers and other various positions often get a stipend. “We hope to be part of a needed change and bring the performing arts to Central Oregon as a full-time career option.”
“The Lightning Thief” is the company’s third production since inception. Its winter play will be “Little Women” at Open Space Event Studios in Bend. Auditions for that will be held in September.
This article appears in Source Weekly August 7, 2025.
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