Broadway Welcomes ‘Old Sport’ with Corbin Bleu and John Behlmann in *The Great Gatsby*
Broadway is set to shimmer with the return of *The Great Gatsby* as Corbin Bleu and John Behlmann join the cast, beginning March 30th at the Broadway Theatre. This new production promises a fresh take on F. Scott Fitzgerald’s iconic novel, bringing the roaring twenties to life on stage.
Bleu and Behlmann Step into Legendary Roles
Corbin Bleu, known for his breakout role in High School Musical and recent Broadway appearances in Holiday Inn and Kiss Me, Kate, will portray the observant narrator, Nick Carraway. Interestingly, Bleu first took on the role in London’s West End in 2025. John Behlmann, whose Broadway credits include Smash, Shucked and Tootsie, will embody the complex and often unlikeable Tom Buchanan.
The arrival of Bleu and Behlmann marks a changing of the guard, as Michael Maliakel and Austin Colby will play their final performances as Nick and Tom, respectively, on March 29th.
A Star-Studded Cast and Rotating Roles
The production already boasts a stellar lineup, including Tony Award nominee Eva Noblezada as Daisy Buchanan, joining the cast on March 4th. Noblezada will perform opposite her real-life spouse, Reeve Carney, who will portray Jay Gatsby starting March 30th alongside Bleu and Behlmann. Prior to Carney’s arrival, Tony nominee Jeremy Jordan will play his final performance as Gatsby on March 7th, with Ryan McCartan stepping into the role from March 8th to 29th.
Audiences will also have the opportunity to see Traci Elaine Lee, Elena Ricardo, and Kyla Stone share the role of Daisy Buchanan through March 2nd, adding another layer of artistic interpretation to the beloved character.
The Enduring Appeal of *The Great Gatsby* on Stage
The musical adaptation of *The Great Gatsby* delves into the story of Jay Gatsby’s relentless pursuit of his former love, Daisy Buchanan, amidst the extravagance and societal shifts of the 1920s. The story continues to resonate with audiences due to its themes of wealth, class, love, and the elusive American Dream.
The Rise of Literary Adaptations on Broadway
The success of *The Great Gatsby* on Broadway is part of a larger trend of adapting classic literature for the stage. Productions like *Wicked* (based on *The Wonderful Wizard of Oz*) and *Hadestown* (inspired by the Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice) demonstrate the audience appetite for familiar stories reimagined through the lens of musical theatre.
Why Literary Adaptations Thrive
Several factors contribute to the popularity of these adaptations:
- Built-in Audience: Classic novels often have a pre-existing fanbase eager to see their favorite stories brought to life.
- Rich Themes: Literary works frequently explore universal themes that resonate with contemporary audiences.
- Creative Freedom: Adaptations allow for creative interpretations and innovative staging, offering a fresh perspective on well-known narratives.
The Impact of Star Power on Broadway
The casting of recognizable names like Corbin Bleu and Eva Noblezada significantly impacts ticket sales and overall production visibility. Celebrity involvement draws in a wider audience, including those who may not typically attend Broadway shows.
The Synergy of Stage and Screen
Actors transitioning between stage and screen roles, like Bleu, are becoming increasingly common. This cross-pollination of talent benefits both industries, bringing new audiences to Broadway and providing actors with diverse opportunities to showcase their skills.
FAQ
When does *The Great Gatsby* begin performances with the new cast?
March 30th.
Who is playing Jay Gatsby?
Reeve Carney.
Who is playing Daisy Buchanan?
Eva Noblezada.
Where is *The Great Gatsby* playing?
The Broadway Theatre.
Did Corbin Bleu play Nick Carraway before Broadway?
Yes, he played the role in London’s West End in 2025.
Get your tickets to *The Great Gatsby* on Broadway today!
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