Two of musical theatre’s most electrifying voices are joining forces for one of the most anticipated West End events of 2026. Tony Award–winner Ben Platt and Golden Globe–winner Rachel Zegler will headline a special 25th anniversary concert staging of Jason Robert Brown’s The Last Five Years at the London Palladium, running 24th — 29th March 2026.
The limited engagement will see Platt take on the role of Jamie Wellerstein, an ambitious novelist whose career takes off just as his marriage begins to crumble, opposite Zegler as Cathy Hiatt, an aspiring actress recounting their relationship in reverse. The two-character musical, first premiered in 2001, is known for its emotional structure — Jamie’s story moves forward in time, while Cathy’s unfolds backwards, the pair meeting only once in the middle.
Composer and lyricist Brown (Parade, The Bridges of Madison County) will direct and conduct the anniversary production himself, lending an added sense of authenticity to the landmark run.
Platt, best known for originating the title role in Dear Evan Hansen and for his acclaimed solo music career, returns to the London stage following his sold-out Reverie tour stop at the O2 in 2023. Zegler, who broke out as Maria in Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story and recently made her West End debut in Evita, will make her concert musical debut in the role of Cathy — a part long coveted by vocal powerhouses.
The Last Five Years is presented by Lambert Jackson with LW Tickets with musical direction by Leo Munby. Emma Butler will serve as associate director.
In a press release Jamie Lambert said: “This beautiful show which has impacted so many people around the world deserves this stellar cast for its 25th anniversary. Getting to work with Jason Robert Brown again, one of the greatest composers of our time, is a total privilege and his faith in Lambert Jackson is something we are forever grateful for. Working with LW tickets and deepening our relationship with the LW team by taking a week at The London Palladium, where we’ve produced over 30 shows, is a great step forward for all involved and we’re excited to see where it leads.”
Tickets go on pre-sale at 10am on October 30th 2025, with general sale opening 10am on October 31st 2025.
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