Daisy chain

"In his blue gardens men and girls came and went like moths among the whisperings and the champagne and the stars."

The Northern Ballet Theatre's The Great Gatsby is astonishing. Director and choreographer David Nixon brings F Scott Fitzgerald's iconic tale of mysterious Jazz Age millionaire Jay Gatsby to the stage of Edinburgh's Festival Theatre with intelligence and heart. A brilliant troupe of dancers move to the music of Sir Richard Rodney Bennett, which takes its cues not solely from jazz (a terrific number reminiscent of the Mike Hammer theme) but also evokes Aaron Copeland, Argentine tango, Michel Legrande and more. There's even a fun Charleston. Every choice is perfect for its scene, as the dancers glide across the stage with gorgeous lyricism. And the Northern Ballet Sinfonia interpret the lush score with power and precision.

This is a surprisingly sexy piece, not 'merely' in a sequence showing the passion of the mistress Myrtle, but in the poetry between the dancers, whether it's man/woman, man/man or woman/woman ... I'm not saying a subtext has been invented, just that these dancers moving in any combination is sweetly stirring.

Jerome Kaplan's production design also deserves a massive nod, calling out to the paintings of Edward Hopper and mixing in impressionistic cityscapes and naturalistic seaside scenes - somehow, it all coheres to make visual magic.

But I ain't no dance critic (obviously!). I'm just wittering away because I've had one of the best theatrical experiences of my life - if The Great Gatsby comes anywhere near you , try to get along. Here's a link to some clips - enjoy!