Full disclosure, I find The Great Gatsby a somewhat dark tragedy —probably because it is.
But through the darkness of the story, Williams Lake Studio Theatre (WLST) cast and crew sparkle in the upcoming production, opening Feb. 26.
The sharp suits, flapper dresses and shimmering sequins which bring 1920s New York City and Long Island to life are a feast for the eyes, and the outstanding cast of WLST’s production makes for an unforgettable evening of entertainment.
There will even be a really fun photo booth out front for theatre goers to create some memorable photos of their own.
The great lighting, fun set changes, and an amazing live vocal performance by Lexine Wilson, are simply fabulous in this dramatic performance.
WLST makes use of the entire theatre, wrapping the audience into the show, thanks to the cleverly-maximized theatre space itself.
Once again, the lighting is an integral part of the set, and while at times it is on the dark side, this works in the thematically dark play.
If you are feeling a bit defeated by the current culture of over consumption and sometimes wonder if we are running headlong into our own destruction, this show is not a departure from this theme, but it does add some sparkle (and maybe hope) to the darkness.
The play is a reminder how the self-destructive and selfish tendencies of humans are things society has seen before and survived, and sometimes, retreating to small towns, where people can perhaps more easily be their authentic selves, might be a good strategy.
The show will run Feb. 26 to March 1, March 5-8 and March 12-15 on the Michael Rawluk Stage in the Williams Lake Studio Theatre on Mackenzie Avenue. Tickets are available online through wlstudiotheatre.ca or in person at The Open Book. Tickets are $25 for adults and $22 for students, children and seniors.
