Why this Harrogate show is a social media sensation

The exciting new version of The Great Gatsby, where the audience dress up and move around the theatre becoming a part of the story,has led audience members to hail it as "an experience like no other."

The show, based on F Scott Fitzgerald's seminal tale of lust, liquor, jealousy and jazz set in the Roaring Twenties, sees the whole of Harrogate Theatre transformed into Gatsby's mansion with the audience in amongst the action.

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One audience member, Richard Webb tweeted "My first #immersive theatre. Sharing a scene with Daisy and Tom and one audience member was incredible."

The show has necessitated taking all the seats out of the main auditorium and creating a cabaret ballroom with fully working pop-up bar.The aim is to take ticket-holders back to 1923 in such a way they feel like they're actually there as the plot unfolds.

Why people should see The Great Gatsby - by Harrogate Theatre's chief executive

Featuring dancing and music, the theatre's own chief executive David Bown, who also co-writes the annual panto, told the Harrogate Advertiser The Great Gatsby is "the best show I've seen in 15 years at Harrogate Theatre.

Mr Bown said: "It really is an interactive experience like no other. Audiences are universally saying it is one of the most enjoyable evenings they have ever spent at the theatre.

"Everyone is encouraged to dress in period costume, join in with the dancing and truly immerse themselves in the action as the story unravels all around the theatre.

"And if last week is anything to go by, the people of Harrogate are not hesitating to do so.

"This stunningly acted production manages to capture the grand scale of the novel, whilst speaking directly to individual audience members. All the characters confide some secrets that only you get to hear about as the actors move in and amongst the audience.

"You may also be invited to divulge a little bit about yourself. You live the era and take part in the spectacular staging.

"The entire theatre is authentically dressed, and you will experience the nooks and crannies of this beautiful building that provides the perfect backdrop to a story of money, love and betrayal.

"Gatsby is the longest-running immersive theatre show in the country and it’s easy to see why. Get dressed up, put on your dancing shoes and put your name on Jay Gatsby’s guest list. Don’t miss out on one of the most talked about shows and probably one of the most breath-taking stage entrances of any character in the entire history of Harrogate Theatre."

It certainly seems to have hit the mark with ticket holders.

The Great Gatsby - Harrogate social media comments

Steve Dempster posted on Facebook:"It was absolutely fantastic!! Congratulations to everyone involved."

Nichola Bottomley posted on Instagram:"Last night was truly one of the most exciting theatre experiences I’ve had in years!"The cast, set and attention to detail were beyond comparison. Simply exceptional."

The Geek Pub Quiz & Geeky Movie Quiz tweeted:"What an absolutely amazing night of entertainment @HGtheatre and The Great Gatsby. I highly encourage you all to go experience this."

Some tickets are still available for the final performances.The audience is encouraged to wear 1920s dress and dancing shoes are required.The Great Gatsby runs at Harrogate Theatre from July 11-20.

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