It might seem an absurd idea to run a musical in the West End for just a week. In fact, it may conger up images of Gone with the Wind, which although managed to last out 6, seemed to leave everyone walking away from it as if theyd sat through a week! But this is what producers Jamie Hendry, Neil Eckersley and Paul Spicer have decided to run for, and in all fairness to them, their Notes from New York season offers London theatre-goers something fresh, original and exciting.The first instalment, Jason Robert Browns The Last Five Years, tells the story of a couples downward spiralling relationship. It intriguingly shows the two lovers as individuals their scenes and songs in solo, interacting with one another solely in the middle of the musical as they get married. Jamies side of the story is told from beginning to end, Cathys in reverse. There are undoubtedly moments that this style leaves us craving a more naturalistic setting, but on the whole, the internal monologue feel to the piece drew me into their contrasting emotions and actually adds rather than takes away from the performance.Julie Atherton is on magnificent form as failing actor Cathie, making full use of some terrific comedy, dodgy auditions and desperation on the phone to agents a particular highlight, and touching our hearts with her part in the duet The Next Ten Minutes. Paul Spicer meanwhile brings honest truth and a touch of cheek to the casual and unfaithful Jamie. Crucially, Jason Robert Browns music is easy to listen to without being forgettable and is full of rolling piano chords which really help to display the emotional edge to the performance.There is something so refreshing about The Last Five Years from both an artistic and commercial point of view. It may only be running for a week, but its one not to be missed.