The English Theatre of Rome, in collaboration with John Cabot University's Italy Reads programme, presents The Great Gatsby: Five parties and a funeral opening on 26 October and running each weekend until 11 November.

The world premiere adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald's classic American novel – which Scott Fitzgerald finished in Rome – was conceived and directed by Gaby Ford with co-direction by Molly Zimmelman and Elizabeth Saragnese, and features a large cast of international Rome-based actors.

The audience is invited to immerse itself in the roaring 1920s – a reckless era characterised by lavish parties, foxtrot dancing and empty opulence – and discover more about the mysterious Jay Gatsby and "what foul dust floated in the wake of his dreams". There are even ticket reductions for those who turn up dressed in 1920s attire, while on opening night there is a special reduced ticket price of €10.

Preview photos of rehearsals from behind the scenes by Gigi Fields.

The play is part of John Cabot's substantial Italy Reads programme which features illuminating lectures about The Great Gatsby and Scott Fitzgerald, by professors Sarah Churchill, Elizabeth Geoghegan and Mary Merva, as well as events specially designed for teachers and students. 

To book tickets for the play, tel. 064441375, 34893555626 or email rometheatre@yahoo.com. Teachers wishing to bring student groups should contact  italyreads@johncabot.edu.

Performance dates: 26 Oct (20.00), 27 Oct (18.00), 28 Oct (18.00), 2 Nov (20.00), 3 Nov (18.00), 4 Nov (18.00), 10 Nov (18.00), 11 Nov (18.00).