Nothing says ‘relationship’ quite like a five-year emotional rollercoaster, it seems the perfect way to capture and depict the constant highs and lows is to stage it in chronological (Jamie - Oli Higginson) and reverse chronological order (Cathy - Molly Lynch). Here we get to see everything The couple go through, following their successes and failures, waiting on bated breath to see just how ‘The Last Five Years’ have been for them.
Initially revived as a smaller staged production in its original venue, now comes the challenge of a much bigger theatre and stage Though it must be said the staging wasn’t affected at all. If anything the production itself benefited from a bigger stage, allowing the actors more space to move around and showcase their acting and instrumental abilities throughout. When the pair play the piano around each together it’s intimate and personal, it becomes their story and we’re just spectators.
Where the staging benefits it’s seems the vocals suffer slightly as a result of the space. If we’re being critical, Lynch seems almost to be holding back at times, her lowest emotional points don’t quite match that of her co-star. Lynch has the capability though but seems to not reach full potential. Nonetheless, her performance has its moments of delicacy and is a performance to be commended.
It is a very well polished performance it must be said. With a well-directed performance, Jonathan O’Boyle’s production captures the incredible music of Jason Robert Brown and continues to go from strength to strength. Starting at the Southwark Playhouse growing in popularity and stature and finally landing at the Garrick, with no intentions of going anywhere. And rightly so. Review by George Butler
Rating: ★★★
Seat: Stalls H11 | Price of Ticket: £62.50
