This production of The Great Gatsby, which is co-written and co-directed by Peter Todd and Mina Moniri, is a modern interpretation of F. Scott Fitzgerald's classic novel of the same name. This new stage adaptation reimagines Jay Gatsby as a woman, allowing for the themes of the play to feel more urgent, tackling additional themes. This production is stellar and should be loudly and widely commended.
The Great Gatsby is narrated by Nick Carraway (Ethan Bareham), who moves in next to the uber wealthy millionaire Jay Gatsby (Emily Serdahl). Carraway frequently visits his wealthy cousin Daisy Buchanan (Lily Carson) and her husband Tom Buchanan (Roman Pitman). The Buchanan's have a tensed relationship, as Tom is having an affair with Myrtle Wilson (Vara Raturi), the wife of George Wilson (Fotzroy "Pablo" Wickham), the working class garage owner. Gatsby slowly confides in Carraway, revealing a past relationship with Daisy Buchanan, and her present burning and yearning to be reacquainted. Carraway, caught in the middle of secrets, lies, betrayal, class divides and more, narrates how certain events unfold, resulting in the tragic demise of a few of the characters.
The show understands and honours the writing of Fitzgerald, incorporating lines directly from the novel, whilst ensuring that they've been adapted for stage. Despite the many characters and increasingly complicated relationships between them, this production remains easy to follow, even for audiences who may not know the story.
The Great Gatsby works extraordinarily well using theatre in the round staging, allowing for the audiences to feel immersed in this wealthy world, with a front row seat to the underlying tensions. Characters emerge for all four corners, and even have props set atop of seating banks, allowing for the performers to come amongst the audiences. The view remains excellent throughout, for the direction has ensured that the characters are kept moving and visible at all times.
The stage design (Jak Spencer) is mostly bare, with a golden reflective design taped to the floor, providing a shining reminder of the glamour that adorns Carraway's world. White cloth is draped from the ceiling, providing an ethereal feeling at moments, but is often tucked away, and a gorgeous floral tapestry covers one of the four corners as Gatsby's garden. A singular lantern hangs above centre stage, shining it's green glow, in obvious sight yet without drawing much attention.
The performances are each individually excellent, and together they prove to be a young theatre company to keep an eye out for. Bareham does a fantastic job as the positive, polite and introverted Carraway, with a sweet disposition that connects with the audiences. Serdahl does a wonderful portrayal of Gatsby, bringing out her fierce determination as well as a gentle soul. Carson as Daisy creates a stirring picture of wild innocence with a tortured soul. Bareham, Serdahl and Carson have a strong emotional connection, making the reunion between Gatsby and Buchanan an achingly tender moment in the show.
Pitman as Tom is scarily accurate as the offensive elitist, creating a feeling of fear and disdain in the audience. Raturi as Myrtle is a bolder character and rightfully takes up space and commands attention on stage. Wickham as George captures the swirling rage of injustice and suspicion, creating a whirlwind of emotional outbursts through the show, most notably in the show's climax.
The main cast are joined by Danielle Nnene as the insightful Jordan Baker, Eleanor Dunlop as a sweet young Gatsby, Enkhtamir Erdenebulgan as Dr. Bergheim and Flynn Hallman as Mr. Gatz, who each shine in their smaller roles.
The costumes contribute a great deal to the success of this show. Designed by Dunlop, the show features period accurate attire, carefully choosing outfits that both coordinate and showcase character personality. The show features a great deal of quick changes, that are impressive to behold. Finley Bettsworth and Alva Orr (Lighting and Sound Design) help create a turbulent landscape for the piece, creating warm chatter for parties, and a secretive blue whispers for forbidden and hidden moments. These elements are neatly combined with movement by Vanessa Silva and musical direction by Joe Waymouth to create a really vivid story world. Particular moments of the show, such as the car crash, are told through movement and music alone, to a great effect.
This production ofThe Great Gatsby is a magnificent stage adaption of the novel, opening up the conversation even further with its new creative and casting choices. Every element of this production has been carefully thought out, and this results in a great and strong production.
The Great Gatsby is currently playing at the Cockpit Theatre until 14th December.
★★★★★ (5*)
Gifted tickets in return for an honest review | Photography by Jenn Webb
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