The regional premiere of 2010’s Pulitzer Prize-winning rock musical “Next to Normal” demands its patrons come with expectations properly set.
Don’t anticipate leaving the theater whistling a happy tune, because this is no Rodgers and Hammerstein.
Expect haunting, disturbing, emotional brilliance. Presume impeccable talent worthy of one of the best professional companies in Chicagoland. Envisage experiencing the full range of human emotion wrought by gut-wrenching reality set to a stunning, Tony award-winning score.
In a year of strong local musical-theater productions, Drury Lane’s “Next to Normal” is second to none.
It’s the story of a suburban family coping with life 16 years after the death of their toddler son. Diana, the mother brilliantly portrayed by Susie McMonagle, is undergoing psychiatric treatment for bipolar disorder and hallucinations.
Husband Dan (Rod Thomas) suffers silently while trying to hold the family together for Diana and teen daughter Natalie (Callie Johnson). The fabulous ensemble is completed with Diana’s hallucinations of deceased son Gabe (Josh Tolle), Natalie’s boyfriend Henry (Skyler Adams) and Diana’s therapists, Drs. Fine and Madden (Colte Jullian).
The 2009-2011 Broadway production won critical acclaim, numerous award nominations and a handful of statues. Brian Yorkey’s marvelous book and lyrics and Tom Kitt’s soaring music form a near rock opera.
Indeed, acclaim in this production goes to the brilliant music led by conductor Ben Johnson and his orchestra. Musical high points include the Johnson/Adams duet “Perfect for You,” McMonagle’s ode to the manic episodes, “I Miss the Mountains,” and Tolle’s driving, “I’m Alive.” But to be fair, there’s not a dud in the bunch.
A terrific synopsis and history of this show may be found here. But more importantly, information on the emotional roller coaster of bipolar disorder should be read here. This insidious malady formerly known as Manic Depression is suffered by up to 5 percent of the population, according to some reports. In theater terms, that’s 48 people in attendance at sold-out opening night.
But don’t discount the anguish of those with whom the front line sufferers share their lives; “Next to Normal” certainly doesn’t.
It delves into an entire family’s heroic quest for resilience and love in light of tragedy and illness. It points out that when it comes to normal, there really is no such thing.
“The problems of this family are not so rare,” said Drury Lane’s artistic director and show directorWilliam Osetek. “You may find that the troubles of this typical American family are not at all unfamiliar to your own, or others you know.”
And that’s what makes Drury Lane’s “Next to Normal” disquietingly, magnificently unforgettable.
“Next to Normal” runs through October 6 at the Drury Lane Theatre, 100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace, less than a 1-hour drive from all North Shore suburbs. Parking is complimentary. Information and tickets ($35-49 with additional dinner packages and senior and student discounts for some shows) are available online or by phone 630-530-0111.
Barry Reszel is a Libertyville-based writer, at-home dad and executive director of the not-for-profit entertainment company Liberty Town Productions.
