Is it better to live in the past, the present, or the future? Would you rather stand in your bubble dreaming of the past, bending it into your present, and hoping for your perfect future? The PNC Broadway in Kansas City series has brought another smash hit in “The Great Gatsby” that will answer these questions.

First, Dominique Kelley and Cedric Dodd should be commended for the unbelievable ensemble dancing numbers. They’re intricate, dynamic, and never lose their kick to their hyped-up jazzy numbers. The tap scene alone brought the most applause and cheering from the audience.

Make no mistake, though. Costume designer Linda Cho won a Tony for the razzle-dazzle costumes that create the dancing attitudes. Why? There’s more to the costumes than glitter and flair. There’s a thread running through the plot; a dark, sinister undercurrent that requires a cloak and dagger change to costuming. She then brings elegance and charm to the main characters and it all becomes part of past, present, and future.

Nick Carraway, played by Joshua Grosso, starts speaking a monologue that becomes a beautiful voice in song. Jake David Smith as THE Jay Gatsby has a vocal range that mesmerizes with his incredible control when singing with longing and love. Telly Sessions is not to be overlooked as just George Wilson the gas station man. His strong voice is perfection as it soars to the rafters. Valeria Ceballos as Daisy Buchanan and Will Branner as Tom Buchanan have tremendous timing in their roles and their duets show their chemistry even in their lowest moments.

Orchestration drives the characters through their highs and lows. Jason Howland wrote the music and Nathan Tysen wrote the lyrics. Together, they create a mix of jazz, love ballads, songs of betrayal, and pull a set of individuals through song out of the crazy throng of the ensemble. It’s a contrast that catches the ear before you notice the emotions of one against the background of those just living and loving a carefree lifestyle.

The man behind the magic is the director, Marc Bruni. He keeps this production lively and moving along with no downtime and perfect timing. This is not an easy task! This director accepted this challenge and deserves accolades for this brilliant show.

If you want the answers to life’s mysteries, you simply must go see “The Great Gatsby” for yourself! It’s playing at the Music Hall in Kansas City, Mo., Mar. 17-20 at 7:30pm, Mar. 21 at 2pm and 7:30pm, and Mar. 22 at 1pm and 6:30pm. Tickets are available through broadwayinkc.com.