SXU Drama Club Presents Student Adaptation Of 'The Great Gatsby'

CHICAGO – The Saint Xavier University Drama Club will present "The Great Gatsby," newly adapted for the stage and directed by SXU students Myah Bawadi, Giuli Islas and Nuala Hanlon on Friday, April 8 at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, April 9 at 7 p.m.

Drama club president Bawadi, vice president Islas and treasurer Hanlon are long-time fans of the book and movie adaptations and very passionate about telling the classic story. Initially, they intended to license a play, but after finding out "The Great Gatsby" entered the public domain in 2021, they decided to write their version, which takes on a fresh yet familiar feel.

"When we decided to infuse our adaptation of the show with some of the pomp from the movie, it was natural,” Bawadi said. “Each cast member has grown and expanded their take on the characters beyond that of the book and movie. We do a lot of gender-bending in the show, making it both modern yet reminiscent of the 1920s. It is our honor and privilege to bring theater back to SXU.”

Tickets are free for all SXU students with school ID and $10 for faculty, staff and the community (cash only). Tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so arrive early on the evening of the show. Shows will be performed in McGuire Hall on the SXU Chicago campus at 3700 W. 103rd St.

Come and enjoy watching the SXU students grace the stage for this classic tale of love, loss and the prohibition era elite.

"The Great Gatsby"

Adapted for the stage and directed by Myah Bawadi, Giuli Islas, and
Nuala Hanlon.

Produced by Cyndi Grobmeier and Kristel Flynn.

Starring:

Lola (LJ) Shoemaker as Jay Gatsby
Nuala Hanlon as Nick Carraway
Shealyn Scott as Daisy Buchanan
Myah Bawadi as Jordan Baker
Kayla Krull as Tom Buchanan
Giuli Islas as Myrtle Wilson
Luis Gallardo as George Wilson
Jack Morgan - Ensemble
Melanie Munoz - Ensemble
Ellie Andersen - Ensemble
Alyssa Caracheo - Ensemble