Penobscot Theatre Company to Present Jason Robert Brown's THE LAST FIVE YEARS

Two of the region's biggest stars will shine in Penobscot Theatre Company's upcoming production of The Last Five Years. Dominick Varney and Brianne Beck will play Jamie and Cathy, two talented, passionate and ambitious young people who come together and fall apart over five pivotal years. He tells their story from the romantic beginning and she from the bitter end, offering alternating perspectives on the passage of love with the passage of time. Written by Jason Robert Brown and directed by Michele Colvin, the production will open in previews at the Bangor Opera House on March 10 and run through March 27.

"Some musicals are beloved for their breadth and bawdiness, but this story resonates on a deeper, more personal level," said Producing Artistic Director Bari Newport. "Drawing from his own intimate experience, Jason Robert Brown has crafted a narrative that's utterly, sometimes uncomfortably familiar. Through his brilliant composition and creative storytelling, he pulls us into this fated relationship and sweeps us off our feet."

For a work requiring musical virtuosity, the extraordinary Varney and Beck will be backed by esteemed members of the Bangor Symphony Orchestra - guitarist Phil Kell, cellist Marisa Solomon, and violinist Ryu Mitsuhashi - joined by Gaylen Smithon bass, with musical direction by Ben McNaboe.

"In addition to spotlighting our region's depth of musical talent," said Newport, "this production will showcase the artistry of our design team, which has created a stunningly beautiful world. The team includes Tricia Hobbs (scenic), Scout Hough (lighting), Kevin Koski (costumes), Meredith Perry (props), and Brandie Larkin (sound).

The Last Five Years is produced in partnership with Eaton Peabody. The theatre gratefully acknowledges the generous support provided throughout the season by the following sponsors: Bangor Daily News, Blueberry Broadcasting, Canyon Networks, The Charles Inn, The Maine Edge, Darling's, Downtown with Rich Kimball, WLBZ Channel 2, and ZONE Radio.