Jason Robert Brown’s poignant musical, The Last Five Years, has a promising premise but falls short in its Broadway revival starring Nick Jonas and Adrienne Warren. At the heart of the show lies a flawed narrative that relies heavily on the lead actress to carry it.
The story follows Jamie, a rising novelist, and Cathy, an actress, as they navigate their failed relationship from two different timelines. The musical’s innovative format allows for a unique perspective, but its uneven pacing and lack of cohesion hinder the overall experience. Brown’s score is often praised by performers, but in this revival, it feels like one person’s weight is bearing down on the entire production.
Warren shines as Cathy, bringing depth and nuance to the character. Her self-confidence at times clashes with Cathy’s insecurities, but she adapts remarkably well to the role. However, Jonas struggles to find his footing as Jamie, struggling to convey the complexity of the character. His persona, cultivated over years in Disney and pop stardom, feels incongruous with the Jewish intellectual novelist Jamie is meant to be.
The staging suffers from poor design choices, including a confusing set and lighting that often overwhelms the characters. Even the usually reliable Dede Ayite’s costumes fall short. Despite Warren’s valiant efforts, the show’s balance is disrupted by Jonas’s miscast performance.
Overall, The Last Five Years revival has potential but is marred by its lead actor’s inability to grasp the character he plays. With a stronger Jamie and more attention to production design, this musical might have reached its full potential. As it stands, it’s a flawed yet fascinating attempt to retell Brown’s timeless tale.
Source: https://www.timeout.com/newyork/theater/the-last-five-years-broadway-review-nick-jonas-adrienne-warren-jason-robert-brown