Danny Beard joins The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical tour

RuPaul’s Drag Race UK winner Danny Beard will join the UK tour of The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical from January 2026.

They take on the role of Mr D, the god of wine, marking their first involvement with the production as it begins the next stage of its run. Beard, known for their appearances on Britain’s Got Talent, their 2022 Drag Race victory and a recent stint on Celebrity Big Brother, will appear alongside the existing company as the tour moves around the country.

Beard said, “Who knew the Greek gods were crying out for a camp, bearded diva? I’m thrilled to be joining the incredible cast and creative team of the UK tour of The Lightning Thief: The Percy Jackson Musical, playing Mr D – who just so happens to be the God of wine and drama. This show truly has something for everyone, and I’m looking forward to bringing the myth, magic and mayhem to audiences around the UK in 2026!”

Starring as Percy Jackson is Vasco Emauz, joined by Kayna Montecillo as Annabeth, and Cahir O’Neill as Grover. The company also includes Simone Robinson as Sally Jackson, Niall Sheehy as Mr Bruner, Ellie-Grace Cousins as Clarisse and Paolo Micallef as Luke, with Alex Anderton, Abe Armitage, Joseph Connor, Ellouise Delooze, Becca Francis and Amy McEvoy appearing as the ensemble.

The musical, adapted from Rick Riordan’s novel, follows Percy Jackson’s discovery that he is the son of Poseidon and the journey that follows as he is drawn into a world populated by gods, monsters and rivalries. The show has previously appeared off-Broadway, on tour in the United States, in a Broadway limited run and at the Other Palace in London

The 2026 tour begins at the Wales Millennium Centre from 14 to 17 January and then visits Hull, Malvern, Manchester, Birmingham, Peterborough, Darlington and Leicester. The production is led by director and choreographer Lizzi Gee, with Ryan Dawson Laight responsible for set and costume design, Tim Deiling overseeing lighting design, Dan Samson handling sound design and Matt Powell providing video design. Jeremy Wootton serves as musical supervisor, working alongside musical director Will Joy. The illusions are created by Richard Pinner and the fight direction is by Lisa Connell. Libby Watts joins as associate director and choreographer, while Christophe Eynde is associate set and costume designer.

The Lightning Thief features a book by Joe Tracz and music and lyrics by Rob Rokicki. The running time is approximately two hours and ten minutes including an interval.