Chronology twists in witty musical

The Leamington company is bringing Jason Robert Brown’s musical The Last Five Years to the stage for a one-week run.

The writer used his own failed marriage as inspiration for the story, which explores a five-year relationship between Jamie Willerstein, a rising novelist, and Cathy Hyatt, a struggling actress.

Taking an unusual twist on the standard musical theatre format, the show tells Cathy’s story in reverse chronological order, starting just after the end of the marriage, and Jamie’s in chronological order, starting just after the couple meet for the first time.

The only time both characters actually ‘meet’ on stage is at their wedding, which takes place in the middle of the show.

But audiences are helped along by an on-stage ‘timeline’ made up of a series of light bulbs that illuminate with each time shift, shining an alternating spotlight on Jamie and Cathy’s very different reactions to their failed relationship.

The show, which draws on a variety of musical styles including rock, jazz, Latin and classical for its score, is directed by Christopher Mead, with musical direction by Matt Flint.

Christopher said: “Directing this production has reminded me of why I first fell in love with this passionate, witty, hugely entertaining show over a decade ago.

“I even feel slightly jealous of those members of the audience who will be seeing this remarkable piece of musical theatre for the first time.”

The Last Five Years is on at the Loft in Victoria Colonnade from tomorrow until Saturday September 15 at 8pm (no show on Sunday). For tickets, call 0844 4934938 between 9am and 5pm from Monday to Friday or go online.

A discount of ten per cent for parties of more than ten is available on full price tickets, excluding the performance on Saturday September 15.

www.loft-theatre.co.uk

Caption:

Nathan Dowling as Jamie and Joanne Richards as Cathy in the Loft Theatre’s production of The Last Five Years. Picture submitted.