NEW YORK, NY — May 26, 2025
A century after F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel first captivated readers, The Great Gatsby has returned to the spotlight—this time as a lavish Broadway musical. Opening at the Broadway Theatre, the production has quickly drawn praise for its opulent staging, jazz-infused score, and fresh interpretation of the classic tale of ambition, love, and the elusive American Dream.
A Roaring Revival
Directed by Marc Bruni, the musical adaptation resurrects the 1920s with grand visual and emotional energy. Choreography by Dominique Kelley infuses the stage with movement reminiscent of the era’s electric Charleston nights. Kait Kerrigan’s book adapts the original narrative with modern relevance, highlighting enduring social themes while preserving the essence of Fitzgerald’s prose.
The musical’s score, composed by Jason Howland with lyrics by Nathan Tysen, creatively blends vintage jazz with contemporary musical theater tones. The compositions not only evoke the spirit of the Roaring Twenties but also help bridge the emotional arcs of the characters for a modern audience.
Scenic designer Paul Tate dePoo III and costume designer Linda Cho immerse theatergoers in Gatsby’s extravagant world. From gleaming Art Deco mansions to shimmering flapper gowns, the visuals powerfully transport the audience to the Jazz Age’s glamorous yet fragile grandeur.
Stellar Performances
The cast features Jeremy Jordan as Jay Gatsby and Eva Noblezada as Daisy Buchanan, both delivering performances that resonate deeply with viewers. Jordan captures Gatsby’s mysterious allure and emotional intensity, drawing audiences into the complexities of his relentless pursuit of an unattainable dream. Noblezada brings nuance to Daisy, portraying both her delicate charm and the internal conflict between desire and societal expectation.
Noah J. Ricketts as narrator Nick Carraway provides a grounded lens through which the audience experiences the story, while Samantha Pauly’s Jordan Baker offers a lively counterbalance with her sharp wit and unapologetic confidence. Their chemistry enhances the narrative’s tension and emotional depth.
Mixed but Enthusiastic Reception
While many theatergoers have embraced the musical’s grandeur, critical reception has been mixed. Enthusiasts laud its visual splendor and strong performances, noting the effective fusion of old and new. Some critics, however, argue that the adaptation occasionally prioritizes spectacle over introspection, glossing over the novel’s darker themes of moral decay and disillusionment.
Nonetheless, the production’s ability to captivate a diverse Broadway audience suggests its success lies in emotional resonance rather than strict fidelity to the source material. Its accessible format offers a gateway for new generations to engage with one of America’s literary cornerstones.
Audience Engagement and Cultural Impact
Audience members have praised the show for its immersive experience and evocative atmosphere. The live jazz band, high-energy choreography, and opulent stagecraft create a world that feels both timeless and timely. Viewers often leave the theater discussing not just the performances, but also the relevance of Gatsby’s themes in today’s world—identity, aspiration, and the cost of the American Dream.
The musical also serves as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling. Nearly 100 years after its publication, The Great Gatsby continues to inspire reinterpretation and debate. This Broadway revival proves that with creative vision and cultural sensitivity, even the most established classics can find new life on the modern stage.
A Transatlantic Future
Following its successful run in New York, the production is poised to make its West End debut at the London Coliseum in 2025. This upcoming expansion further affirms the global appeal of Fitzgerald’s narrative and the universality of its themes.
As the musical continues to evolve and tour, it invites audiences around the world to step into a glittering past that still holds a mirror to the present. For those who witness it, The Great Gatsby musical is more than just a theatrical event—it’s a celebration of enduring dreams in a world constantly in flux.
By Indigo James, Senior Correspondent
