description Next to Normal Overview
Next to Normal is a rock musical with music by Tom Kitt and book and lyrics by Brian Yorkey. It follows a suburban family affected by the mother's bipolar disorder, exploring grief, psychiatric treatment, memory, marriage, and the effects of illness on relatives. The musical opened on Broadway in 2009 and received the 2010 Pulitzer Prize for Drama.
insights Ranking position
Next to Normal ranks #63 of 203 in the Play ranking, behind The Playboy of the Western World, ahead of Anything Goes.
help Next to Normal FAQ
Who is Gabe in Next to Normal?
Gabe is Diana and Dan Goodman's son, but the audience gradually learns that he died as a baby. His continuing presence onstage represents Diana's grief, memory, and inability to release the life she imagined for him.
What treatment does Diana receive in Next to Normal?
Diana receives psychiatric medication and later electroconvulsive therapy after her condition worsens. The musical examines both the possible benefits and the painful effects of treatment, particularly memory loss.
Which awards did Next to Normal win?
Next to Normal won three Tony Awards in 2009, including Best Original Score for Tom Kitt and Brian Yorkey. It also received the 2010 Pulitzer Prize for Drama.
How does Next to Normal portray bipolar disorder?
The musical presents Diana's illness through changing moods, hallucination-like encounters with Gabe, medication, and strain on the Goodman family. It does not reduce the story to diagnosis alone, because grief, marriage, memory, and Natalie's needs are equally important.
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