Next To Normal

Rebecca Varidel
3rd Jul 2018

At the beginning of this year, we predicted that 2018 would be The Year Of Musical Theatre.

And would like to remind you that musical theatre, is not restricted to the big stages, or the big theatres of Sydney.

Musical theatre is alive in the suburbs. With the suburbs just the perfect place to house a show about how far two parents will go to keep themselves sane and their family’s secret world intact.

Next to Normal is a contemporary musical that explores how one suburban household copes with crisis.

Directed by Kathryn Thomas, the Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award-winning musical explores the issues of grief, suicide, drug abuse, ethics in modern psychiatry and the underbelly of suburban life. Next to Normal is considered one of the best musicals of the 21st century: sometimes dark, honest, funny and brutally moving, it’s a show that should not be missed.

Starring Miriam Rihani, Trent Gardiner, Chelsea Taylor, Chris O’Shea, Brent Dolahenty and Luka Bozic, Next to Normal also features musical direction by Steve Dula, choreography by Rebecca More with Isaac Downey, assistant director.

Director Thomas said the play was an incredibly important piece of theatre, portraying as it does the struggles within an outwardly conventional family unit. “This show teaches us what it is to lose a loved one and how that burden can change your life forever.”

“I am a big believer in theatre being a catalyst for social change. As a director I am always drawn to shows that explore what it is to be human and how to learn and grow from experience.”

Lane Cove Theatre Company presents NEXT TO NORMAL
Book and lyrics by Brian Yorkey, music by Tom Kitt
August 10 to 25 2018
The Performance Space, St Aidan’s, 1 Christina St, Longueville

www.lanecovetheatrecompany.com