BWW Reviews: THE GREAT GATSBY, Riverside Studios, May 24 2013

What with Wilton's Music Hall's recent adaptation, the ballet at Sadler's Wells and Baz Luhrmann's appropriately glitzy film, F. Scott Fitzgerald's classic novel seems to be enjoying a new airing. While at points - especially during the opening - this production's posturing detracts from its truism, the heightened style of musical theatre actually really suits the exaggerated characters and their lavish lifestyle.

The quintessential "roaring twenties" story tells of Nick, who has recently started working, and attempting to make his fortune, in bonds; the great Gatsby himself is his new - and newly affluent - neighbour. Nick observes his cousin, Daisy's, glamorous and flighty lifestyle, along with the pain her husband's affairs bring her. However, when the enigmatic Gatsby reveals himself as Daisy's wartime lover, twenties peacetime loses its simplicity and the metaphorical endless party rather loses its sheen.

Linnie Reedman's script utilises much of Fitzgerald's observant prose, though at points lacks subtlety, while Joe Evans's jazz music and lyrics generally integrate into the script very well. Both cast and direction were largely strong - though Sid Phoenix's singing was a little below par and Matilda Sturridge pouted to the heavens throughout. That said, she sang beautifully and Bullock's musicianship was impressive. Michael Lindall was consistent as Gatsby and Phoenix and Ian Knauer made a very believable Nick and Tom. Imogen Daines was fantastic as Jordan, playing the violin beautifully to boot.

However, the most impressive moment of the show had to be when the party-goers drunkenly sang that it was time to go home - hats off to Kate Marlais and Alyssa Noble who were hilarious throughout. All in all, though this feels like a production that can be further developed, it is already a great evening out; keep your eyes on both the material and cast.

The Great Gatsby runs at the Riverside Studios until June 8, in rep with Ruby in the Dust theatre company's other musical, Hutch. Contains some adult scenes.

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