Experience The Great Gatsby like never before.
Gatsby Redux is coming to Toronto’s waterfront next week for two nights only.
The outdoor dance show reimagines the classic novel The Great Gatsby on its centennial anniversary with live music, movement and audience participation. The show is part of the newly reimagined Water/Fall Festival and will be presented in partnership with the Waterfront BIA.
The novel by F. Scott Fitzgerald tells the story of interactions between the narrator and Gatsby, who is trying to win back a former love.
The show celebrates the novel’s anniversary by pulling audiences into the glamour, music and spirit of the Jazz Age. Instead of sitting in seats, people will move across Harbourfront Centre’s waterfront campus, following dancers through a series of scenes.
The show is directed and choreographed by Janet Roston, artistic director of Mixed eMotion Theatrix.
“What makes this so special is that you are not just going to see a performance, you are part of a performance,” said Morganne Campbell, communications lead at Harbourfront Centre.
“Gatsby Redux is a perfect example of how dance can transform public space,” said Diana Webley, manager of arts and culture at Harbourfront Centre. “It turns the act of watching into an immersive journey.”
Audiences can expect live jazz and electro-swing music, including costumes which accurately reflect the 20s era.
There are even interactive moments where the line between performer and spectator blurs.
Audiences follow the dancers with the lake and skyline serve as a natural backdrop. Webley notes that there’s no better setting than the lake as it “makes the whole experience unforgettable.”
Guests are encouraged to wear 20s-inspired outfits and comfortable shoes. The show takes place outdoors, rain or shine.
The production comes to Toronto after a run in Beverly Hills. It was staged against the backdrop of a castle. Harbourfront Centre wanted to bring that level of show here, working with award-winning choreographer Roston and her team.
Local Toronto dancers are featured in the cast. They have been preparing with Roston’s team over Zoom and will come together in person only days before the show.
The performance is suited for fans of dance, theatre, music and literature. It is especially for those interested in fashion, theatre, literature and live music.
Tickets are $65. A group buy option lowers the price to about $50 each for four tickets.
Students can get a special discount by using the code GATSBYBOGO25 when buying tickets. Make sure to take your student ID to show at the Box Office
Event Details
Gatsby Redux
– Dates: September 27 & 28, 2025
– Time: 6 to 7:30pm
– Location: Harbourfront Centre, 235 Queens Quay West
Tickets are available now at www.harbourfrontcentre.com
