Photos by Jenn Webb

The Great Gatsby: A Glittering Queer Reimagining at The Cockpit Theatre

When you think of The Great Gatsby, you probably imagine champagne-soaked parties, a brooding millionaire, and the relentless hum of the Jazz Age. Scar Theatre’s production at The Cockpit Theatre offers all of that – and adds a daring twist by reimagining Jay Gatsby as a woman. Co-directed by Peter Todd and Mina Moniri, this adaptation brings Queer and feminist perspectives to F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic, turning a tale of yearning and heartbreak into something daringly modern.

Emily Serdahl’s performance as Gatsby is captivating. She exudes the charisma and mystery you’d expect from the enigmatic host, but she also brings an undercurrent of vulnerability that makes this Gatsby feel refreshingly human. Ethan Bareham’s Nick Carraway provides a steady anchor, portraying the character with a wide-eyed charm that slowly gives way to quiet disillusionment. Lily Carson captures Daisy’s infuriating mix of charm and selfishness perfectly, while Roman Pitman’s Tom Buchanan is all bluster and bravado, as toxic as you’d want him to be.

This is Gatsby as you’ve never seen it before – glittering, Queer, and infused with a bold modernity

The staging is an immediate success. With cascading wisteria and golden geometric designs, the set evokes Gatsby’s world of opulence without overwhelming the space. The production is staged in the round, drawing the audience into every champagne toast, whispered confession, and chaotic dance. The intimacy of the setup works beautifully, making you feel less like a spectator and more like a guest at one of Gatsby’s famous parties – minus the risk of being caught in Tom’s next outburst.

The party scenes are an absolute highlight. The cast bursts into life with lively choreography that flows through the aisles, creating an electric energy that’s impossible to resist. But beneath the glitz lies the familiar ache of Gatsby’s doomed obsession. The production transitions seamlessly from its raucous highs to its quiet, introspective moments, reminding us that the Jazz Age was as much about emptiness as it was excess.

That said, the production doesn’t dig as deeply as it could into its feminist and Queer reinterpretations. Reimagining Gatsby as a woman opens up fascinating possibilities about power and identity, but these themes remain tantalisingly underexplored. Still, the boldness of the concept and the strength of the performances carry the story forward, leaving plenty to reflect on.

Final Thoughts ★★★★

Would I recommend The Great Gatsby? Without hesitation. This is a bold, clever and visually stunning production that reimagines one of literature’s most enduring tales with Queer energy and feminist perspectives. While it doesn’t explore every theme as deeply as it could, its dazzling staging and heartfelt performances make it a compelling watch.

As the lights went out, I found myself lingering on the questions this Gatsby raises. It’s a story of dreams, heartbreak, and relentless ambition, brought to life with modern relevance. Scar Theatre offers a glittering spectacle with just enough grit beneath the surface to keep you thinking long after the applause fades.

Playing at The Cockpit Theatre until 14 December 2024.

Disclaimer: A complimentary ticket was provided in return for an honest and unbiased review.

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