Greenwood Little Theatre will present “The Last Five Years” at 7 p.m. Thursday through Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday at its playhouse on Sycamore Avenue.
The show premiered in Chicago in 2001, was produced off-Broadway in March 2002 and since then has had numerous productions both in the United States and internationally.
The story explores a five-year relationship between Jamie Wellerstein (Paul Brown), a rising novelist, and Cathy Hyatt (Amanda Ronning), a struggling actress. Cathy’s story is told in reverse chronological order (beginning the show at the end of the marriage), and Jamie's is told in chronological order (starting just after the couple have first met). They do not directly interact except for a wedding song in the middle as their time lines intersect.
“I’ve always dreamed of doing ‘The Last Five Years,’” Brown said. “The first time I heard Amanda sing, I just knew she was going to be my Cathy Hyatt.”
Brown said he envisioned directing and playing the music for the show, but with all of the potential male leads dematerializing before his eyes, he decided to step into the role of Jamie so the show wouldn’t have to be canceled. “It's been a challenge, but this is a show that needs to be seen,” he said.
Due to the complex nature of the storyline and mature nature of some of the humor, young children may not understand or be able to keep up, so parents should use discretion.
To reserve seats or buy tickets, go to www.greenwoodlittletheatre.com or call 662-947-1075.
