The Last Five
Years
Hudson Theatre
May 17, 2025
The Last Five Years is a uniquely structured
one-act musical. It has a non-sequential
storyline, which causes you to lean in and listen carefully. It is all song, with very little
dialogue. The music and lyrics, by Jason
Robert Brown, draw the audience in, immersing them in the emotional journey of
the two main characters. Director
Whitney White allows the actors to delve deeply into the needs of their
characters, giving them complete ownership of the trajectory and texture of the
piece. 
Photo courtesy of The Last Five Years
Jamie (played by Nick Jonas), a young Jewish novelist, meets and falls in love with Cathy (played by Adrienne Warren), an aspiring actor/singer/dancer. When we first meet them, Jamie is singing about the beginning of their relationship, while Cathy is lamenting about the end, five years later. As the story progresses, we find out about the challenges in their relationship. Jamie’s success quickly rises, while Cathy struggles to get noticed. Their needs are different, yet their love is genuine.
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| Adrienne Warren & Nick Jonas Photo courtesy of The Last Five Years |
emotional perspectives. Nick Jonas is charismatic and debonair as Jamie. His songs are delivered as monologues, layered with rich subtext. Adrienne Warren is grounded and bold as Cathy. Her voice is powerful, while her character grapples with insecurities. This dichotomy gives her character a truthful, empathetic dimension. The audience feels for her and identifies with her emotional journey.
The chemistry between Mr. Jonas and Ms. Warren is vibrant. Their relationship sizzles and solidifies when they sing together. Their connection is honest, and their voices blend amazingly well.
The Last Five Year is playing at the Hudson Theatre through June 22. It is a ninety-minute emotional and personal journey with an absolutely beautiful score.
Domenick Danza
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