Fringe Theater presents Jason Robert Brown’s award-winning musical “The Last Five Years” at the Key West Armory, 600 White St., through March 29 at 7 p.m.
The story of love and loss takes two distinct looks at one relationship — a concept that’s reflected in the show’s seating.
“We’re using an alley-style staging for ‘Last Five Years,’” said managing artistic director Rebecca Tomlinson. “That means the audience is divided into two different sections and the stage is placed between them. Literally, there are two sides to this space to reflect the two sides in the play.”
The play’s storytelling style is also nonlinear. Cathy’s story is told from the point of view of the end of a marriage – she is grappling with Jamie’s departure. But Jamie begins his story with the elation of a new opportunity for love with Cathy. The storylines are juxtaposed to highlight a contrasting perspective, giving the play a haunting effect as the audience knows before the characters where the story is going.
Playwright Jason Robert Brown is a Tony Award-winning composer and playwright. His shows feature a dynamic style that is rhythmically and harmonically unconventional — and musically challenging.
Starring in the show are Ben Pegg (Jamie) and Claire Caplan (Cathy). Both are popular local singers who are branching out into the world of theater.
“Ben and Claire connected immediately to the music and to each other. Their ability to give life to these characters and the rawness that exists in their performances will make it hard not to be affected,” said director Lauren Thompson.
“The Last Five Years” production team includes musical director Roberta Jacyshyn, lighting designer Anthony Palmer and run crew Aramis Ikatu and Fritzie Estimond.
“The Last Five Years” runs through March 29 at the Key West Armory, 600 White St. Tickets are $45 and $60 and can be purchased at fringetheater.org or by calling the KeysTix box office at 305-295-7676. House opens at 6:30 p.m. Show begins at 7 p.m.
