Act Out Enrichment presents The Lightning Thief - The Percy Jackson Musical at The Box above The Fox opening May 2 at 7pm. Percy, the son of Poseidon, who struggles in his day to day life and has just lost his mortal mother, is sent on a quest to prevent a war between the gods.

This latest production from Act Out Enrichment's Children's Theatre program showcases some really incredible up and coming actors, as each of the performers take on multiple roles, and create a magical experience for the audience and especially fans of the Percy Jackson stories. As Percy (Luke Michaelson), Grover (Christopher Vogt), and Annabeth (Penelope Roth) make their way from Camp Half-bloods to Los Angeles to find the portal to the underworld, they begin to suspect that not is all that it seems to be, and their adventure forms a bond that will last a lifetime.

These kids can sing! I'll admit that when I see a children's theatre production I expect some off-key singing, and occasional flubbing of lines, but I was impressed by how each of the performers were able to hold their notes, and belt out some very passionate songs. Luke Michaelson, as Percy, was especially impressive and he conveyed a wide array of emotions and sang his heart out.

Another favorite was Penelope Roth as Annabeth, who was perfectly cast as the slightly arrogant daughter of Athena that wants her own quest so she can prove herself, but ends up being exactly the companion Percy needs to make it through his own quest. She serves face, and emotes on a completely different level throughout the performance.

Isaiah Kuehl, as Dionysus, the constantly drunk god of wine and headmaster of Camp Half-Bloods, gives a hilarious performance the provides a nice comedic backbone to the story. Along with the exceptional costuming and the use of a video screen as a backdrop, the stage and overall sets really immerses you into the story and takes you on a journey you won't soon forget.

Directed by Bethany Schultz, with music direction from Brittany Paige McMains, Act Out Enrichment brings another stellar show to The Box, a delightfully intimate theater located on the roof of the The Fox Theatre in downtown Riverside. The show opens May 2 at 7pm, and runs through the weekend with matinee performances on Saturday and Sunday. Get your tickets on the Act Out Enrichment website before they are all sold out.