THE UPPER SIXTH CAST
It was unusual to have the opportunity to watch a play that I ’ d rehearsed performed by a different cast ( I played Jordan in the Lower Sixth version ). I really enjoyed watching the Upper Sixth as , while the lines and blocking were the same , their subtly different interpretations of their characters gave their performance a contrasting tone .
I thought that the most effective part was their ability to bring out the comedy from their lines , bringing light relief in serious scenes and making the eventual tragic end especially poignant . Isabella Munday , in particular , shone as Gatsby , combining his jovial outward persona with inner vulnerability . Gatsby and Daisy ( played by Stella Hammersley ) had fantastic onstage chemistry and the honest sense of happiness and youthful affection that they created when onstage together meant that Gatsby ’ s downfall in the closing scenes had a sense of raw pain and unresolved conflict , which the actors dealt with convincingly .
Madelyn Morris portrayed Nick , the book ’ s narrator , in a mature , reflective way . The scenes between her and Hebe Marr-Johnson ( Jordan ) were beautifully delivered , showing the progression of their curious relationship . Hebe Marr-Johnson embodied Jordan ’ s indifference and cynicism excellently , adding a quiet sense of humour which brightened her interactions with other characters .
Dominic Williams played an angry Tom , at times bringing in a sense of childishness as the character realises that Daisy is slipping from his grasp . The performance was dotted with superb moments of comedy : Becky Caiger ( Wilson ) and Kieran Kiggell ( Mr McKee and Michaelis ) delivered lines with deadpan hilarity .
Overall , I felt it came together as a vibrant , exciting production , capturing the prosperity and pitfalls within 1920s society .
Charlie Bailey , Lower Sixth
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