“Next to Normal: The
American Dream You Don’t Want”
Talking Horse Production’s “Next to Normal” by Tom Kitt and
Brian Yorkey is one of the theater’s first major musicals. This story of a
suburban household and the family who try to cope with a mother who is losing
her mind gives a dark comedy vibe that will make you laugh and cry with the
characters. It should have been difficult, seeing as how the black box theater
has a limited amount of space and seating for such a massive show, but somehow,
the setting worked. While the set’s backdrop was a tad confusing (it looked
like there were chromosomes painted on the wall…not a very scenic view for a
household but that might have been a choice), the two-level set did an
excellent job of filling up the space, but not so much that you felt caged in.
The actors’ performances were executed with a finesse and grace befitting the
show. I would recommend seeing the performance…if the seats aren’t sold out
already.
