Whether it be from the several movie adaptations, reading the novel in English class or being familiar with the hit Broadway musical, The Great Gatsby is a classic story stamped into American culture. This epic tale will come to life, for the first time, on the Perry Meridian stage on April 24th and 25th.
After months of rehearsing everyday, making costumes and running light cues, the cast and crew is ready to showcase their talent.
But for many members of the cast, getting to this point has been a long but rewarding process. “It was a bit of a different audition process than I’ve ever done. Everybody knows Gatsby so a lot of people came in knowing exactly what they wanted,” senior Olsen Burr said. The casting process was more competitive than many students have ever experienced. “I definitely saw a lot more guys turn out than I usually do. I always love seeing our Perry guys show up because in theater we are definitely a minority,” sophomore Evan Klipsch.
Typically, with Perry’s plays the cast is smaller, but this show poses an interesting new aspect as it integrates an ensemble into the performance. “This is my first time being in a nonmusical play where there’s been some choreo…the dancing and the chemistry with the cast has been a highlight,” senior Haydn Scott said.
The glittery, sparkling party scenes from the beloved tale are able to come to life with the full cast and added layer that comes with choreography.
According to the cast members this show has a little bit for everyone, “It’s got action, dancing, comedy and romance, really anything you could want in a show,” Burr said.
Even for veteran performers this show has been a special experience for them. “This is probably the most exciting set I’ve ever worked on. The show itself is so incredibly well-written. I think this is one of the best Perry’s stage shows I have seen for a long time. You don’t want to miss it,” Klipsch said.
With the show opening its doors this weekend audiences are ready to indulge in the showmanship and storytelling that is The Great Gatsby.
