Michelle Gendron, Cathy
Why did you want to get involved in this particular production?
It is such a unique production, with so much opportunity to really explore the story. The music is beautiful, the story is beautiful and so real, being such a beautiful exposition of human relationships. And after hearing Kodi and Wendy's vision for the show after the information meeting, I knew it would be a special show for sure.
What would you say is the most challenging thing for you with regard to bringing this show to life?
The hardest part of playing Cathy is definitely the fact that I am telling her story backwards, which is no small feat. However the biggest challenge that this brings is that, with each song, she has less knowledge of whats to come or what has already happened in the show. It's a challenge for sure, but definitely an exciting one.
Who do you think is going to love this show?
This show has something for everyone. Yes the show is about a marriage, but it is also about how people have relationships, the struggles of blending your life with someone else's, and also how your own feeling of self worth and confidence is seriously impacted by those around you. Because you see the whole relationship, from meeting to end, there is a part that everyone can really relate to, and the music isn't half bad either, hahaha.
What do you think the audience is going to take away from the show once they’ve seen it?
They are definitely going to leave with a sense of self reflection, since it's such a prominent theme throughout the show. I hope they don't leave just taking a 'side' in the relationship, which can sometimes be an easy out for placing your feelings about the show, but I think Louie (Jamie) does a wonderful job and not making Jamie black and white, and I hope I can accomplish the same with Cathy.
What's the best part of being in this show?
What isn't the best part! Louie is wonderful to share the stage with, Kodi and Wendy have such a beautiful vision, Ashley and Skye keep everything rolling along...it's just such a wonderful time in rehearsals, which I think translates to the stage so well. It is also just such a large project to take on and it really pushes me as a performer in so many ways. I can not wait to share it with the audiences!
Louie Rossetti, Jamie
Why did you want to get involved in this particular production?
I've been a huge fan of The Last 5 Years for many years. No other show tells the story of falling in and out of love with such honesty and truth. For this reason, the story is perfectly universal. Everyone can see themselves and their own life experiences in each of the two characters as they work through their romantic journey. Telling interesting and accessible stories through song is my passion, therefore I had to be a part of this production.
What would you say is the most challenging thing for you with regard to bringing this show to life?
Since Jamie and Cathy are not in the same time and space for the majority of the show, my greatest challenge is communicating my story to the audience without having Cathy there with me. It's always easier to have your acting partner on stage reacting and responding in real time. However, this unique convention is what makes this show so interesting and exciting to watch!
Who do you think is going to love this show?
Everyone. This show is for you if you love: Pop/rock music, musicals in general, to laugh, to escape, to watch people succeed in love, to watch people fail in love; and most importantly, if you have ever been in a relationship or witnessed others navigate relationships of their own, you will experience something that will move you and that you will take home with you long after the lights come up.
What do you think the audience is going to take away from the show once they’ve seen it?
I think the audience will experience first hand that large sets and expensive costumes are not needed for a wildly entertaining, exciting, and thought provoking musical. The magic in The Last 5 Years is in its simplicity, allowing the emotions and humour to take centre stage. With only two performers on stage (the whole time), there is no place to hide. This creates a mesmerizing atmosphere, free of distractions, as we navigate and share our tumultuous journey of love.
What's the best part of being in this show?
Getting the opportunity to sing and act in such a powerful, well written musical is rare. Working with the wildly creative Kodi (Director), vastly talented Wendy (Music Director), and powerhouse singer/actor Michelle (Cathy) is the icing on the cake. I'm very excited to share this piece with Ottawa and the Orpheus community!