Next to Normal

By Larissa Heron

9th Grade, School of the Future

Next to Normal is a fascinating story about Diana, an erratic bipolar suburban mom, who tries to hold the threads of her family together.

Diana has been depressed for years. Her psychiatrist prescribes medication and finally resorts to horrific treatment to help Diana overcome her condition. Diana fails to improve and the family plunges into chaotic mayhem.

Meanwhile, Diana’s daughter, Natalie, feels ignored—she focuses on schoolwork and an upcoming piano recital instead of dealing with what is going on in her family. Dan, Natalie’s father, tries to help Diana get better and attempts to return the family to how it used to be.

From the outside, this family seems perfect, but when you get a glimpse inside, it is far from normal. The dramatic rock music accompanies the powerful voices of the performers. All of the actors are convincing in portraying their characters.

I highly recommend Next to Normal to teenagers. Although the content is serious, the performance is upbeat and thought-provoking.

Music by Tom Kitt, book and lyrics by Brian Yorkey.

TICKETS: $25 lottery rush • Booth Theatre, 222 W. 45th St. www.nexttonormal.com