We round up the reviews for this musical adaptation of the classic story.
WhatsOnStage: *** “A physical production that marries computer-generated scenery and actual sets to form luxurious stage pictures, the bravura, if somewhat relentless, vocals and the sheer majestic size of the whole glittering shebang collectively bludgeon you into dazed submission.”
The Guardian: * “The unfettered parties at Gatsby’s swanky mansion are antiseptic despite the eye-catching array of costumes designed by Linda Cho (a dazzle of beaded frocks, flapper headdresses and glittery Mary Janes). Dominque Kelley’s choreography gives period moves (Charlestons galore) Beyoncé-style inflections but it looks sterile for the lack of emotional drama around it, while the book, by Kait Kerrigan, merely tells you what is going on, and who is who.”
Time Out: “Did I say it looked nice? From the heartstoppingly beautiful opening projection of the West Egg lighthouse blinking balefully across the water, to the lavish, pyro-enhanced party scenes and the two vintage cars that trundle across the stage, it’s ravishing, one of those Broadway shows that really looks like a Broadway show. Enormous credit to the fabulously named Paul Tate DePoo III, responsible for sets and projections. Post-Lurman ‘Great Gatsby’ has become even more of a byword for decadent sumptuousness – if that’s what you’re here for, you won’t be disappointed.”
Beyond the Curtain.co.uk: “Across from Muscato’s alluring Jay Gatsby plays Frances MayliMcCann in a nuanced and razor-sharp portrayal of Daisy Buchanan. McCann resists the temptation to soften Daisy, finding both the charm and chill in her smile with captivating precision. She gives us a Daisy who isn’t just a dream, but a dangerously real woman – flawed, fascinating, mesmerising.”
The Stage: **** “F Scott Fitzgerald’s classic story of dashed American dreams becomes an impressive glitzy romcom musical in Marc Bruni’s production.”
London Theatre Reviews.co.uk: ***** “Above all, this Gatsby is a feast for the eyes and ears — a rare West End production that truly feels like an event. It’s bold, beautiful, and brimming with creative ambition. In a crowded musical theatre landscape, The Great Gatsby stands out for its polish and spectacle. Don’t miss it.”
All That Dazzles: **** “The Great Gatsby is a big and busy show, but Bruni keeps all of these larger-than-life aspects in order so that it always impresses and never overwhelms.”
The Telegraph: ** “Like other interpretations before it, this take on the great Jazz Age novel pounces on the party vibe and misses almost everything else.”
West End Best Friend: **** “A lavish, opulent spectacle. This is a party that you need to be on the guest list for, Besties – or should we say, old sport?”
The Upcoming: **** “With impeccable performances, intricate dance sequences and grand costume design, The Great Gatsby is a must-watch for musical theatre aficionados. And, no doubt, it’s a party Gatsby himself would be proud of.”
The Standard: *** “In performance this Gatsby turns out to be a sleek, ravishingly designed ocean liner of a show, with enough musical oomph and vocal power to distract you from the hollowness at its heart.”
The Great Gatsby continues to play at the London Coliseum until the 7th September.