by Wesley Wright
This past weekend the LPS auditorium was host to the most highly attended theatrical production thus far for Lakeland Preparatory School. During the four shows the LPS Theatre Company entertained crowds between three and four hundred people. Officially in its second year as LPSTC, the organization has continued to raise the bar each production showcasing the amazing talent in Lakeland schools. The featured Broadway musical was inspired by the book series that combines Greek mythology and modern-day United States. Key characters Percy Jackson, Annabeth Chase and Grover Underwood embark on a cross country journey in Act II after we experience most of the introduction of the characters such as Luke Castellan, Clarisse La Rue and others at Camp Half-blood, a safe haven for demigods in Act I. So many students contributed beautifully to the portrayal of the production that was hard to believe we were watching a production with 7th through 10th graders. Not only actors, but costume, lighting, sound and more. It was apparent each evening the audience was blown away.
Mr. Jeff White, the high school director, had several noteworthy reflections saying, “we were able to do a high school production with 7th through 10th graders…everybody was amazed [in] the ability of our students – their talent, their dedication and their commitment is what is made the Lightning Thief a really successful show and is also what elevates them, to do the great work they do above their age range, yes they might be in middle school but they commit and they perform and they act not only on stage but also in person.” Also, key contributors to the production was assistant high school director Alison Garland and the live band that elevated the experience. Mr. Tate Hansen, the musical director of the show was key. Also, Tyler Griffin – keyboard, Corbin Miles – guitar 1, Wes Parker – guitar 2 and Brent Hopper – bass guitar Micaiah Radcliffe -drum set and Patrick McDermott – drum set (Sunday show). The Thespian inductions and the LPSTC awards are May 6th and that night they will announce the upcoming season for the 2024-2025 school year. “After doing the Lightning Thief we know that the sky is the limit for us and we are excited to take the next step,” said Mr. White.
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