SDITC

This review is copied from the Montana Standard. The last performance is tomorrow’s matinee at 2 p.m. Don’t miss out. See details at the end of the story.

Theater Review: ‘Last Five Years’ has right balance
By Cheri Taylor-Trbovich – 04/03/2009

Same Difference Inclusive Theatre Co.’s production of “The Last Five Years” sensitively and honestly portrays a five-year relationship between Jamie Wellerstein, a writer (Landon Hansen), and Cathy Hiatt, a performer (JoAnne McAllister-Nordhagen).

They each recount the history of their relationship, she from end to beginning, and he from beginning to end.

Hansen and McAllister-Nordhagen have created complex characters that are relatable, and compliment one another beautifully. Both deliver commanding individual vocal performances, and together sound absolutely marvelous. Each proves that stage performance is his or her forte, and makes “The Last Five Years” a must-see production.

The music is fabulous and encompasses a variety of musical styles. Each of the 14 songs tells an independent story, and the author has brilliantly woven them together to create an engaging and genuine musical. My hat’s off to music director Dave Coleman and the orchestra who so capably play such a diverse score.

My favorite songs include “The Schmuel Song,” set during the holiday season. In this song, Hansen does a superb job addressing Jamie’s concern for Cathy’s future. He tells a story about a Jewish character, Schmuel, in which parallels are drawn to illustrate Cathy’s need to “take a breath, take a chance, take your time.” The portrayal is charming and endearing.

In “Climbing Uphill,” Cathy examines the balance between her marriage, career and her husband’s successes. She shows her vulnerability, insecurity and final resolve to “not be the girl who requires a man to get by.” McAllister-Nordhagen shows versatility and gives so much through her stunning voice.

“The Last Five Years” is a poignant and heartrending production that offers the right balance of emotion, reality and humor to make it an enjoyable experience. I strongly recommend this production, which is best suited for mature audiences.

Cheri Taylor-Trbovich majored in drama dance at the University of Montana, where she earned a degree in interpersonal communications. She is a veteran stage performer who has appeared with a variety of acting troupes in Butte over the past 20 years.

If you go … Same Difference Inclusive Theatre Co. presents the contemporary musical, “The Last Five Years” at the troupe’s theater, 900 W. Broadway St. Shows are Friday, April 3, and Saturday, April 4, at 8 p.m.; and Sunday, April 5, at 2 p.m. “The Last Five Years” is appropriate for mature audiences, and reservations are requested. Adult admission is $11; student/senior admission is $9. Call 498-3483.