I hadn’t read F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby in school, nor had I watched Baz Luhrmann’s 2012 epic screen adaptation, so I was going into it blind – something which I love to do. Zero expectations, just a G&T in hand and the best seat in the house, which, to be fair, at the Coliseum London is any seat. I’d never seen anything other than a ballet here, and the surroundings were perfect for a show of such grandeur.
The show kicked off with a huge and punchy chorus number, “Roaring On”. Dominique Kelley’s energetic and sharp choreography embodies 1920s glamour, and I ate it all up. Couple this with immaculate staging, and it sets the scene for a dazzling show. Paul Tate de Poo III’s grand Art Deco set really makes quite an impact. Not one, but two cars feature on stage at one point; it was a clever and creative way to take you on a journey. The staging even outperforms the musical numbers at times; it’s so majestic.
We are then introduced to our hero of the story, Nick Carraway, played by Corbin Bleu of High School Musical fame. His first appearance on stage made the audience roar like I have never experienced, and the admiration went on for some time; he’s clearly adored. And after watching his performance, I can totally see why – He went from hopeless romantic to comedy with an ease that’s sometimes hard for an earnest character.
Another absolute standout from The Great Gatsby was Amber Davies, who brings a tower of talent to her character, Jordan Baker. Having known her from her Love Island days, my expectations weren’t high; however, I couldn’t have been more wrong. Her stage presence is unmatchable, and her vocals during the number “New Money” completely tore the roof off. She can also really dance, which made me green with envy. She really does have it all, and I’m very excited to see where her career takes her next.
At the centre of the spectacle are Jamie Muscato as Jay Gatsby and Frances Mayli McCann as the luminous Daisy. Muscato’s performance left me confused about who Gatsby really was, both charming and unhinged; he took me on quite the rollercoaster. However, his vocals during the song “Past is Catching up with me” left me and the audience completely stunned. A talented actor, if a little chaotic in delivery at times.
Then we have Rachel Tucker’s raw and emotional performance of “One‑Way Road”, which had me reaching for my tissues as she portrays the flawed and vulnerable Myrtle.
There are lots of characters in this show which keeps it moving along at a decent pace. Most of them aside from Nick and Jordan are highly unlikeable but it takes the edge of what can be a sometimes-sickly sweat musical.
As well as stellar performances, technically, the production wrings plenty of visual and musical juice from anthem‑style numbers, tap routines and pyrotechnics. Your eyes are continuously drawn to each corner of this well-thought-out staging. They even have the orchestra pit as a swimming pool from which the orchestra purrs with lush brassy arrangements, mixing period flourishes and modern flair. An exceptional use of space.
We also need to take a moment for two-time Tony Award winner Linda Cho’s staggeringly beautiful and detailed costumes. She really brought this era to life, and Myrtle’s clever costume reveal during the brilliantly staged number “Second-Hand Suit” was nothing short of incredible.
Whether you have read the book or seen the film, it really doesn’t matter, as The Great Gatsby is a fantastic evening out that left me thoroughly entertained.
The Great Gatsby is running until 7th September 2025. Book online.
