Prepare to be swept into the emotional maelstrom that is Next to Normal, a powerful musical now gracing the Wyndham's Theatre in London. Not quite your typical musical fare, this one dives headfirst into the complexities of mental illness, specifically bipolar disorder, through the lens of the Goodman family.
Through the looking glass - Next to Normal distorts reality to explore mental illness
We meet Diana (a phenomenal Caissie Levy), a woman wrestling with the debilitating effects of her condition. Levy delivers a nuanced performance, expressing the highs and lows of Diana's struggle with raw honesty and captivating vocals. Witnessing her unravel and rebuild throughout the show is a testament to her acting prowess.
The impact of Diana's illness extends far beyond herself. Each character is vividly drawn, showcasing the ripple effects of mental illness on family dynamics. Her husband Dan (a solid Jamie Parker) grapples with stoicism and suppressed fear, while their children, Gabe (the mesmerising Jack Wolfe) and Natalie (a fiercely vulnerable Eleanor Worthington-Cox), navigate their own turmoil.
Far from the saccharine tropes often associated with musicals, Tom Kitt's score seamlessly blends rock, pop, and country, mirroring the emotional volatility of the characters. The lyrics, penned by Brian Yorkey, are unflinchingly honest, reflecting the harsh realities of mental illness.
Director Michael Longhurst masterfully uses a two-tiered set by Chloe Lamford to transition between the Goodman household, sterile hospital environments, and doctors' offices. This visual fluidity underscores the ever-shifting nature of Diana's reality. Ann Yee's choreography complements the music with dreamlike sequences, adding layers of emotional depth. Next to Normal doesn't shy away from difficult questions. It explores the impact of unresolved trauma, the efficacy of medication, and the blurred lines between personality and illness. All laced with dark humour, a necessary counterpoint to the emotionally heavy subject matter.
While some aspects, like the romance between Natalie and Henry (Jack Ofrecio), might feel a tad conventional, they do little to detract from the production's overall impact. This is a show that stays with you long after the curtain falls, prompting reflection and challenging preconceived notions about mental illness. If you're looking for a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant theatrical experience, Next to Normal is it - gripping, compassionate, and a celebration of human resilience.
Next To Normal review | What the critics think
"Where this show unambiguously succeeds is in its sympathetic but clear-sighted depiction of a family buckling under buried grief and an impossible present."
— Tom Wicker, TimeOut
"This harrowing, tough-minded musical about mental illness, trauma, love and family is a genuinely courageous attempt to expand the form."
— Sam Marlowe, The Stage
"Another reason for the show’s more pronounced sense of assuredness is the company, all of whom are returning from the Donmar run for a second stint in the show."
— Alex Wood, What's On Stage
How to buy Next To Normal tickets in London?
Looking for budget-friendly tickets for Next To Normal in London? Book your tickets online! Enjoy last-minute availability, choose your seats using our Wyndham's Theatre seating plan, and skip the queues by booking at your convenience.
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