Dad’s an architect; Mom rushes to pack lunches and pour cereal; their daughter and son are bright, wise-cracking teens, appearing to be a typical American family. And yet their lives are anything but normal because the mother has been battling manic depression for 16 years. Next to Normal takes audiences into the minds and hearts of each character, presenting their family’s story with love, sympathy and heart.
This deeply moving piece of theatre features powerhouse vocals with an energetic pop/rock score. Next to Normal addresses such issues as grieving a loss, ethics in modern psychiatry, and suburban life.
Directed by Ryan Shealy
Musical Direction by Jacob Poiner