The Last Five Years

The Last Five Years
By Jason Robert Brown. Musical Direction by Tim How. Paul Peacock's Underground Cabaret, King's Hotel, Perth, WA. July 11-14, 2013

Paul Peacock introduced the final performance of The Last Five Years by announcing that this had been the first sell-out production since this venue opened.

The Last Five Years deserved its capacity audiences. Expertly performed by Casey Edwards and Charles McComb - they created a very tangible five-year relationship despite the fact that Cathy tells their story from the break-up of their relationship backwards, while Jamie's story runs chronologically - intersecting briefly in the middle of the performance.

Casey was a beautiful, sympathetic Cathy. Her opening song, ‘Still Hurting’, was exquisite and set the tone and standard for the rest of the show. Her Cathy was fragile, but determined and layered.

It is difficult to imagine a more perfect Jamie than Charles. He delivered a faultless performance and while all his songs were excellent, ‘’The Schmuel Song had the audience utterly entranced.

Tim How led a small ensemble that beautifully presented Jason Robert Brown's sophisticated score.

Lighting and sound were controlled by Ben Davis. Very simple, but appropriate and well-managed.

For those unfamiliar with Paul Peacock's Underground Cabaret, it is an intimate venue, not dissimilar in size and layout to Underground at The Maj, but in mirror orientation and possibly more cosy. I recommend arriving early and enjoying a nice meal while securing a good table. As might be expected from the name, seating is cabaret style.

Eighty minutes of outstanding theatre, running the gamut of emotions, The Last Five Years was understated brilliance and I feel privileged to have seen it.

Kimberley Shaw

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