Ep51. Norbert Leo Butz & Lauren Kennedy on Theater, Trust, and The Last Five Years

Norbert Leo Butz and Lauren Kennedy reunite to reflect on their journey as the original Cathy and Jamie in The Last Five Years. They share behind-the-scenes stories about the show's development, including how Jason Robert Brown shaped the music around their performances. The conversation explores the challenges of performing such an emotionally intense two-person musical, the struggles of engaging audiences with its unconventional structure, and how the show deeply influenced their personal and professional lives. Norbert Leo Butz is a two-time Tony Award-winning actor known for his powerhouse performances in Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, Catch Me If You Can, and My Fair Lady. A versatile performer across stage and screen, he has appeared in TV series such as Bloodline, Fosse/Verdon, and Debris. Lauren Kennedy, a celebrated Broadway actress, is known for her roles in Sunset Boulevard, Side Show, and Spamalot. Beyond performing, she has made a name for herself as a producer and director, shaping the next generation of theater artists. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices