The Great Gatsby - London Coliseum

Emma Theatrics
Jun 3
4 min read

Updated: Jun 9

The London theatrical scene has received the much anticipated transfer of the 2023 musical The Great Gatsby, now appearing on both the Broadway and West End stage. Bringing along its Broadway splendour, The Great Gatsby is rejoicing audiences throughout its limited London season. With lavish production design and a star-studded cast, the show dove head-first into the hearts of its numerous audiences.

The Great Gatsby is based on F. Scott Fitzgerald's prohibition-era novella of the same name, which tells the story of an up and coming bondsman - Nick Carraway - who moves into a tiny cottage on the grounds of a Long Island mansion owned by the mysterious Jay Gatsby. It deals with the societal struggle between the 'New Money' and the 'Old Money,' and serves as somewhat of a cautionary tale for those who dare to venture themselves into the seemingly lavish but realistically shallow lifestyles these people hold.

The narrative unfolds through the reflective lens of Nick Carraway, portrayed by Corbin Bleu— best known for his star-making turn in the High School Musical trilogy. Ingeniously framed as a flashback, the story begins at its emotional conclusion, then winds its way back through memory and regret, culminating in a poignant full-circle moment with the final number - a reprise version of its first, Roaring On. The soundtrack is full of hits, though some are more memorable than others, and promises a lavish decor and production for every musical interlude.

The show opens in faithful alignment with the novel, beginning with Nick’s reflective narration of the advice imparted by his father during his “younger and more vulnerable years.” This moment not only sets the tone for the production but also establishes the foundation for why so many characters confide in Nick: his remarkable capacity to “reserve judgment” and silently observe those around him. Bleu's performance was witty and charming, delivering pristine vocal quality throughout, as well as standout moments of comedic physicality.

Last summer's hit song, 'New Money', sung by the character of Jordan Baker (Daisy Buchanan's sharp-witted friend, and amateur golfer) in the show's early stages, landed with a sharp 'bang' on the Coliseum stage. Like most numbers in the show, it includes massive decors - some slightly more surprising than others - and a thrilling fusion of 1920s Charleston-style jazz lines and sharp modern choreographic touches (Dominique Kelley). Amber Davies' performance of the role was energetic and incredibly clever, making the number look like an absolute breeze, and more importantly, keeping a seemingly sustainable pace for 8 performances a week.

The Great Gatsby famously includes a tragic story of forbidden love, tying together the tensions between 'New Money' and the 'Old Money.' Daisy Buchanan is Nick's shallow and self-absorbed cousin, and the object of Gatsby's love. Frances Mayli McCann is absolutely divine in the role, with crystal-clear vocals and a great nuance of contempt and genuine love.

Married to a brute of a man - Tom Buchanan (Jon Robyns) - McCann embodies the real unspoken fears of her character with grace and charm.

Taking on the titular role of Gatsby is the phenomenal Jamie Muscato, whose performance feels so natural and commanding it’s as if the role were tailor-made for him. Renowned for his powerful and pristine vocal quality, Muscato delivers a masterclass in vocal storytelling, effortlessly shifting from resonant belts to a delicate tenor mix. His renditions of “For Her” and “The Past is Catching Up to Me” were nothing short of breath-taking—moments that left the audience stunned, jaws visibly dropped. His vocal chemistry with McCann was equally mesmerizing, especially during their first showstopping duet, “My Green Light,” which radiated pure theatrical bliss.

Despite a pristine cast, stupendous sets, and powerful vocal propositions, the show missed some of the heart and deep passion of the novella. Some may point to the (at times) uneven book by Kait Kerrigan, but this reviewer would fault the choice of venue. It is not often that a production's weakness is simply location, but the Coliseum is far too grand for a show which relies on emotional connection to function. Famous for being the largest and finest music hall, this 2,300 seater distances the audience enormously from the stage, making some of the stronger emotional moments of the show land with the insufficient gravitas.

In conclusion, The Great Gatsby dazzles with its Broadway polish, soaring performances, and jaw-dropping production values, offering a rich theatrical experience that is as visually indulgent as the world it portrays. Jamie Muscato’s standout performance as Gatsby, supported by a uniformly excellent cast, brings undeniable charisma and musical brilliance to the stage. However, in its grand West End home at the Coliseum, the production struggles to fully bridge the emotional intimacy needed to truly resonate with its audience. Despite this, The Great Gatsby remains a bold and ambitious adaptation—one that entertains with flair, even if it doesn't always reach the aching heart of Fitzgerald’s tragic tale.