THE show “Next To Normal” brought lyricist Brian Yorkey the 2009 Tony Award for Best Score and Tom Kitt two Tony’s for Best New Score and Best Orchestration. Both won the 2010 Pulitzer Prize in Drama for “Next To Normal,” rare for a musical
We are going to be introduced to a woman with a manic-depressive personality and how she and her family cope, and it’s a pop-rock musical! Huh?
Well fasten your seat belts this is a stunning offering of a multifaceted look into a little understood subject to the general public and oh yes as I said it’s a contemporary, rock musical. The depth that the plot takes us into this dark, insidious disease and gives some perspective that most who have not experienced or been exposed to—we come away with a new understanding. Amazingly enough it is for the most part not depressing and at times humorous as well as heart wrenching with a fine strong cast.
Watching riveting Catherine Brady in the role of Diana in this Pulitzer Prize Award winning musical is like walking on a tightrope of an experience in fine theatre and vocalization brought to life.
Aaron Weisberg as Diana’s loving supportive husband with Callie Camacho-Light as her neglected daughter Natalie, Zack Goller as Gabe her son with Anthony Stephens as Natalie’s interest Henry and Tyler Savin as Dr. Madden/ Dr. Fine bring in solid implementations and adds strength to the sensitive and at times frenzied story with their performances and resilient voices.
Director/actor Ken Powell best known for his fine co-direction of Shrek the Musical” keeps the mood and does not let the momentum of any moment stray.
The sets also by Ken Powell and Andrew Cunnings are unique and ingenious. The small but mighty orchestra under the direction of Christopher Adams brings in solid support for the production … Costumes by Michelle Griffin beautifully fit the mood. Sound and Lighting by Brian Foley and Nathan Cummings is on the mark and never misses the intricate cues.
For an evening of fine theater “ Next To Normal” delivers.
