Travel back to a time of sparkles and splendour at Twelfth Night Theatre’s Gatsby At The Green Light. Presented by Brisbane Festival in association with Blackbird Brisbane, this spectacular circus cabaret brings to life F. Scott Fitzgerald’s classic novel, The Great Gatsby.
The rich and enigmatic Jay Gatsby (Spencer Craig) is famous for his legendary parties, but his dreams are not big enough to chase away his personal tragedies.
In this show, Gatsby’s presence looms over the theatre as he awaits the arrival of his beloved Daisy, played by Caitlin Marion Tomson-Moylan. During the acts, audiences hear snippets of their relationship as Gatsby reminisces over his past flame.
Creators Caper & Crow have wonderfully curated talented acts from all over the world for this production. Craig Ilott and Stuart Couzens’ elusive artistic vision is clear in their sharp direction and timeless design.
Gatsby At The Green Light originally premiered at the Sydney Opera House in 2023 to sold-out crowds following the story’s surge in popularity entering the 2020s. Spectators are able to enjoy the glitz and glam of the roaring ’20s for the 21st century. In the famous words of Jay Gatsby himself: “Can’t repeat the past?… Why of course you can!”
Twelfth Night Theatre is especially noteworthy for being Australia’s only independently owned theatre. Its longstanding history and unique layout make it a vibrant cultural hub with old school charm that pairs well with the classic Gatsby aesthetic.
Even sitting in the stalls of the Twelfth Night Theatre, spectators are made to feel like they’re guests at this stunning party. Renier Jansen van Vuuren’s set design sees the venue dressed up like a 1920s speakeasy with roaming stage lights, dancing waiters, a juggling bartender, and an effervescent hostess. It’s hard not to feel like a part of the performance.
The aerial displays will certainly amaze audiences with their art of suspension. As The Gentleman, aerialist Oscar Kaufman mounts a flying hat stand in a silly and sensuous striptease. Taking hair twirling to a whole new level is Daniela Del Mar as The Sprite with her extraordinary hair hanging aerial act. Their graceful movements and charm make the tricky feats seem effortlessly easy.
Pattering his way to the stars is the incredible Tommy J. Egan as The Bar Hand, whose fast-paced and energetic routine is mesmerising. Tap dancing to Uptown Funk with his characteristic cheek adds pizzazz to the number.
As the Maître D, hostess and burlesque dancer Bettie Bombshell is the cat’s meow. Her bold performance sizzles with heat as she expertly plays with fire and lights up the stage.
Considering the exuberance of the story, there is an unsurprising amount of references to money and riches. This is most notable when Odette (aka Georgia Sallybanks) performs a rendition of Money (That’s What I Want) as Klipspringer. The number sees the Service Ensemble throwing paper money, adorned with Gatsby’s face, into the crowd.
The theatrics of both the dancing and singing by the incredibly talented performers will have audience members jumping up to join in the fun and frivolity.
Gatsby at the Green Light is a fabulously frisky, fun night out with only a touch of Gatsby’s signature lovesick forlorn. Watch the unbelievable as this talented cast defies the laws of gravity multiple times over. Don’t be a fool, put on your best frock and gather all your Old Sports to come to the best party in town!
Gatsby At The Green Light runs to 28 September at Twelfth Night Theatre as part of the 2025 Brisbane Festival. 4 Cintra Road Bowen Hills Qld 4006.
Tickets: https://premier.ticketek.com.au/shows/show.aspx?sh=GATSBYGL25
Website: https://www.brisbanefestival.com.au/events/gatsby-at-the-green-light
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/gatsbyatthegreenlight/
Photo credits: Morgan Roberts
