This summer, Spier is bringing The Great Gatsby to life in an interactive stage adaptation which will be on show on selected evenings until the 31st December 2012.
The story focuses on a young man, Jay Gatsby, who, after falling in love with a woman from the social elite – Daisy – , makes a lot of money in an effort to win her love. Throughout the story themes such as honesty, love & marriage, class & wealth and compassion are explored.
“Can’t repeat the past? … Why of course you can!” – Jay Gatsby
The adaptation was performed to sold out audiences in London and has now come to South Africa at the Spier Wine Estate. The play will be performed throughout the next few weeks making its grand finale on New Year’s Eve.
I had the great privilege to be invited to the opening night last week along with a chauffeur pick-up in an 80 year old Rolls Royce. You don’t get to drive in a car like that every day! I felt like being teleported back in time. When we arrived at Spier and saw that all the guests were dressed to impress in the finest 20s-style outfits, that made the night even more memorable. We truly arrived in the 1920s!
Before the show, everyone could enjoy Gatsby themed food while there was an endless supply of wine to be had. The stage is set on the lawn near the Spier Hotel. Even though it’s summer, it does get quite chilly in the evening, so take along warm clothes or a blanket. During the interval, the audience was invited to jump on stage where the cast took the time to teach them the Charleston. Some succeeded; others failed. In the end, it was a wonderful show with great performances all around. I very much enjoyed myself on the night.
If you want to experience The Great Gatsby at Spier: Tickets can be bought from Computicket and will set you back R630 per person which also includes Gatsby-styled food and wine from Spier. You can also purchase tickets that only include entry to the show which are sold at R375 per person. During New Year’s Eve, Spier will provide extra entertainment for the night and tickets cost R 1,000 per person.
P.S: Discounts are available for groups of 5 or more.
P.P.S: Dresscode: 1920’s fashion. And it is an outdoors event – please bring along warm clothing or blankets. You’ll thank me later. 🙂
