CURTAIN CALL REVIEW

‘THE LAST FIVE YEARS’

CCADS

The Station Theatre, Hayling Island

THIS two-hander, by Jason Robert Brown, charts the relationship between aspiring author Jamie and ambitious actress/singer Cathy. Originally written to unite the couple only at the midpoint – their wedding day – Director John-Paul McCrohon’s bold decision to have them share the stage throughout was a gamble. Casting Lauren Kempton and Perry Ralls, both very talented performers, and giving them the opportunity to further develop their characters deserves praise. Sadly, the show disappointed me on a couple of levels. I found it very difficult to follow the storyline as there were few clear indications of the timeline and Lauren Kempton’s American speed-talking accent resulted in much of what she said or sang being lost. Charlotte Williams made a number of fleeting appearances playing previously un-cast characters. Louise Hellyer’s piano accompaniment was faultless, alongside Nigel McNestries cello, although they often drowned Kempton’s vocals. The nicely dressed set, unchanged throughout, was appropriate and the lighting was fine.

Alan Johns