by: Olive Garrett

The Lee County High School theatre department is bringing F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel The Great Gatsby to life on stage Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights.

Directed by Ron Coley, this version of The Great Gatsby takes a different approach from both the original novel and the 2013 film starring Leonardo DiCaprio. “One thing I liked about this adaptation is that it didn’t focus on how racist some characters are. Some adaptations focus more on the time period, some of the glamor and some on the relationships. I liked the character interaction in this one,” Coley said.

He compliments the cast for their ability to bring the stories characters to life.  “The cast has done a great job of bringing the characters to life and examining why they behave the way they do,” he added

Even with a busy schedule, which has some students balancing multiple productions at once, rehearsing was difficult to fit in, but Coley says, “I know many people are familiar with and love this story so I’m looking forward to seeing how they respond to our version. I think they’ll be pleased.”

Paxton Davis, who plays Daisy Buchanan says that she is excited for the play. “I like the portrayal of the time period,” she said. “I think its fun to do something that isn’t like everyday life.

“The 1920’s is fun because it’s fun to dress up in those outfits and act like a rich chick from the 20’s,” she said.

Davis has also found it challenging to bring her character to life, “She talks so different from me. Her language is very sophisticated,” Davis explained.

Despite playing a well known character, Davis isn’t feeling nervous, “I’m not nervous for my stuff. She’s not a complicated character. She doesn’t care. The only complicated part of her life is her kid, she cares a lot about that kid. She doesn’t care what her husband thinks. She’s mad at her husband. She likes that some guy is into her, so she chased that. I don’t think that it is complicated. She just did what she wanted to do and that was that,” Davis explained.

Caleb Simmons, who plays Jay Gatsby says he has a difficult role to play. “This is the most nuanced character I’ve ever played, and I find that interesting,” he said.

Like Coley, Simmons is confident that the audiences will enjoy the play. “I think an audience will enjoy that. It’s not the most action-packed routine, but audiences will enjoy the show.”

Don’t miss the chance to see the iconic story of The Great Gatsby performed on stage at LCHS. 

The play will take place at 7pm every night with adult tickets costing $10 and $5 for student’s tickets, tickets can be purchased at the door or bought at gofan.co.