THE GREAT GATSBY - Broadway Theatre (07/11/24)

With the popularity of arguably F Scott Fitzgerald’s magnum opus, and the unequivocally extravagant, lavish quality with which it is synonymous, you have to wonder why it took so long for anyone to successfully adapt it to the broadway stage. And having witnessed this new Marc Bruni directed production of “The Great Gatsby”, with music by Jason Howland, lyrics by Nathan Tysen and book by Kait Kerrigan, one has to conclude it was well worth the wait old chap!

Jeremy Jordan and Eva Noblezada (credit: Jeremy Daniel)

Set to a backdrop of 1920s New York, the legendary parties of enigmatic multi millionaire Jay Gatsby are always the talk of the town, invites to which are hugely sought after, so when young war veteran falls into the favour of Gatsby, securing an invite, his social stature somewhat elevates, though the motivations behind Gatsby’s advances soon reveal themselves to be less than savoury.

Although the adaptation of the source material is not the strongest, with more focus on Gatsby’s relationship with old flame Daisy Buchanan (portrayed exquisitely by broadway superstar Eva Noblezada) rather than the capitalist undertones or Jay’s own backstory, you can’t deny this is a high budget, champagne show full of fizz, elegance and extravagance. From Paul Tate dePoo’s set and projections, to Linda Cho’s costumes, LaPointe and Grier’s hair and makeup, and score by Howland, this is an instant broadway classic that oozes style and sophistication.

Jeremy Jordan’s take on the eponymous Jay Gatsby is classy, refined and debonair, with just a touch of condescension, showcasing his versatile acting abilities and smooth, soaring vocals that will have you hooked from the first note. Noblezada plays opposite him with wonderful grace and solemnity, but also a great deal of sass when needed, and the on stage chemistry between the two is magnificent.

The cast of The Great Gatsby (credit: Jeremy Daniel)

Alongside them, we have a supremely talented supporting and ensemble cast, Samantha Pauly as Jordan is terrifically gutsy, and Alex Prakken as Nick had a charm and candour that could melt even the coldest heart in Long Island. Choreography by Cedric Dodd was truly dizzying, and executed masterfully by this sumptuous ensemble, with tap performances in "La Dee Daa With You" the most pulse-racing, showstopping of the whole evening. This may not be a revolutionary piece of theatre, but it is certainly spectacular, flashy, and truly unforgettable, classic broadway at its best.

★★★★☆

"The Great Gatsby" currently plays at New York's Broadway Theatre