The Novato Theater Company presents a special long-weekend performance of “The Last Five Years” Jan. 12-15. The play is a fundraiser for the theater and features Julianne Thompson of San Rafael and Robert Kaywin of Napa in the lead roles.
“The Last Five Years” is a one-act musical by Tony Award-winning composer Jason Robert Brown. Set in New York, it tells the joys, complications and heartbreaks of a five-year relationship between a young novelist, Jamie, and Cathy, a struggling actress.
Co-produced by Thompson and Gary Gonser of Novato, the play presents perspectives from each of their viewpoints. “She tells her story starting at the end of the relationship, and he tells his starting at the beginning,” Thompson said. “Watching their timelines unfold in opposite directions gives unique insight into the intricacies, trials and emotions of their relationship.”
The play, which took Drama Desk Awards for best music and best lyrics, was inspired by Brown’s own failed marriage. His ex-wife threatened legal action if the play followed their own lives too closely, so Brown made changes so it could be produced.
Music is directed and performed by Lucas Sherman. “The Last Five Years” will be presented Thu., Jan. 12, through Sat., Jan. 14, at 8 p.m., with a matinee on Sun., Jan. 15, at 3 p.m. Tickets are $22. Student price is $18 with children’s tickets $12. All shows are at the Novato Theater Company Playhouse, 484 Ignacio Blvd., Novato.
Tickets are available online at novatotheatercompany.org or by calling 883-4498. All seats are reserved.
