The Great Gatsby swings into the Patti Baker Theater starting this Thursday. The play, based on the book written by F. Scott Fitzgerald, follows a 1920’s town after Jay Gatsby arrives. The show features bright lights, stunning costumes and jazz numbers you simply don’t want to miss. This cast is very talented. All have good chemistry with one another on stage, which simply adds to the incredible performance.

Senior Winter Scantlin, who plays Daisy Buchanan does an incredible job. I found myself getting caught up in the emotions she was portraying on stage, feeling as if I was watching Daisy herself as these scenarios rolled out instead of sitting in a dress rehearsal.

Senior Ethan Jones, who plays Daisy’s counterpart Jay Gatsby, could not have been more perfect for the role. The resemblance between him and his character is uncanny. Even when he’s in the background of a scene, you can see the Jay Gatsby aura coming forward and can feel the air he presents himself with.

Sophomore Ben Lucia draws eyes in any scene he is in. He is able to portray his emotions very smoothly and his bright smile adds charm to his character Nick Carraway. His charismatic persona mixed with a charming smile adds character as he narrates and moves the story along.

Jordyn Baker, played by Senior Alex Clark is simply stunning. Clark does a great job of transitioning from flirty to serious within a second. Much like Daisy, it was easy to get lost in Clark’s portrayal of her. Her performance is nothing short of captivating.

Sophomore Evan Oukrop does an incredible job of portraying toxic husband Tom Buchanan. I found myself taken aback when he marched on stage to grab Daisy. He makes the tension between Daisy and Tom that much more believable and his ability to appear intimidating adds to the depth of the play.

Junior Shaelene Wortham, who plays Myrtle Wilson, is so fun to watch. It is easy to tell that she has fun on stage and enjoys performing. The play would not feel complete without her there.

The costumes and dancing were captivating, successfully sending the viewer into the Roaring 20’s. The dancing added a depth to the parties, coming to life with each jazz step or Charleston.

The set changes, although complex, are mostly unnoticeable as they move from scene to scene. The set behind each comes to life with the help of the actors. Their talent allows them to accurately portray what’s happening in that scene with precise props and and motions.

With the combination of the music, sound effects and set design, it is difficult to bring yourself out of the play and into the present.

You can catch this iconic show in the Patti Baker Theater on Oct. 17, 18, 24, 25 and 26 and 7:00p.m. and Oct. 19 at 2:00p.m.