Next To Normal Review

Reviewed by Connie Bole at Wyndham’s Theatre on behalf of London Box Office.

Tickets were gifted in return for an honest review

Next to Normal is a must-see production for anyone finding themselves in London this summer. With a strictly limited run, this truly is the hottest ticket in town.

Photo by Marc Brenner.

Fifteen years after the show wowed Broadway audiences, Next to Normal has come to the West End following a summer-run at the Donmar Warehouse in London last year.
Next to Normal broke boundaries and started the ball rolling for important conversations to be had in 2009, and this production continues that legacy. 
 
Next to Normal is a groundbreaking musical that delves into the complexities of mental illness and its impact on a suburban family. The story centres on Diana Goodman, a wife and mother struggling with bipolar disorder, and her attempts to maintain a sense of normalcy amidst her chaotic emotional landscape. Her husband, Dan, is unwavering in his support, though he grapples with his own sense of helplessness and denial. Their daughter, Natalie, feels overshadowed and neglected, channelling her frustrations into perfectionism and rebellion. The narrative also explores Diana's relationship with her son, Gabe, whose presence is both a source of comfort and turmoil.
 
Next to Normal is a resounding triumph in contemporary musical theatre, delivering a profound and unforgettable experience. It was evident within moments of the show starting that this production is something special. The show tackles complex themes with remarkable honesty and sensitivity, leaving the audience enraptured from start to finish
 
The cast is nothing short of sensational. Each actor delivers a performance that is both nuanced and powerful, bringing depth and true, raw emotion to their roles.

Photo by Marc Brenner.

Cassie Levy’s portrayal of Diana and her struggles with mental illness was a masterpiece of acting. It was real and vibrant and mesmerizing. Her journey through depression and mania was authentic and empathetic, and it truly feels as though she did justice to anyone who has ever experienced similar struggles.

 
Eleanor Worthington-Cox brings Natalie to life, an overlooked daughter processing feelings of neglect and frustration with explorations into distractions of love and indulgence. Worthington-Cox’s performance is strong-headed and fiery on the surface, but holds a subtle fragility just underneath, which rears its head in the most emotive, touching moments, crafting both a heart-wrenching and heart-warming performance.
 
Jaime Parker (Dan Goodman) was the backbone of the show, offering a level-headed, rational perspective on the ups and downs of the family dynamic, and Trevor Dion-Nicholas (the Doctors) and Jack Ofrecio (Henry) fill up the ensemble cast with comedic relief, and supportive portrayals.

However, most noteworthy of all, is Jack Wolfe. This is a star-making role for him. It was simply breathtaking. His performance was magnetic, and his presence on stage was electrifying. His vocals were flawlessly powerful, and his portrayal of Gabe, Diana and Dan’s son, was charming and thought-provoking.  Wolfe’s interpretation of Gabe justifies any ticket price ten-fold. It is a performance you won’t want to miss.
 
Aside from the cast, one of the standout features of this production is the brilliantly devised set design. The cross-section of a house can be seen from start to finish, but the elements of the house are dynamic and versatile, seamlessly adapting to the changing scenes and emotions of the story. The multi-level structure allows for fluid transitions between the various aspects of the Goodman’s lives, providing a visual representation of the multifaceted, fragmented nature of their experiences. This well-executed design enhances the storytelling and adds more and more layers of meaning to the production and characters as the story progresses, immersing the audience within the narrative.
 
Equally impressive is the thoughtful and stunning lighting design (headed by Lee Curran). The lighting is used not simply to illuminate the stage, but to convey the emotional tone of each scene. Subtle changes in colour and intensity reflect both the characters' inner turmoil and moments of clarity, adding a profound depth to the performance. The lighting also plays a crucial role in highlighting the contrast between the external appearance of normalcy and the internal chaos experienced by the characters, fortifying the central themes of the musical.
 
Next to Normal has a score (music by Tom Kitt) that blends rock and contemporary musical styles and is bursting from the seams with numbers that are both powerful and poignant. The songs are beautifully performed, and the lyrics (Bryan Yorkey) are deeply moving, capturing the complexities of the characters' emotions and experiences. Highlights include the heart-wrenching "I Miss the Mountains", the hauntingly beautiful "Superboy and the Invisible Girl," and the unnerving, captivating “I’m Alive”, which are delivered with such intensity that they resonate long after the final note has been sung.

Jack Wolfe. Photo by Marc Brenner.

Direction plays a pivotal role in the success of this production. Michael Longhurst has crafted a show that is both intimate and expansive, drawing the audience into the personal lives and struggles of the Goodman family, whilst also addressing broader societal issues surrounding mental health and what a person does to cope. The pacing is expertly handled, ensuring that the tension builds gradually, and the emotional impact is maximized. Every moment feels carefully considered, contributing to a consistent and powerful narrative.
 
The production design as a whole is a testament to the creativity and vision of the entire team. From the set and lighting to the costumes and sound design, every element works together to create an immersive and emotionally charged experience. The attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the production, making it a truly standout piece of theatre.
 
In conclusion, Next to Normal is a masterful blend of sensational performances, inventive staging, and exquisite lighting. It tackles difficult themes with grace and sensitivity, leaving a lasting impression on all who see it. It will leave anyone who watches with chills from the first song through the last, and will capture both the minds and hearts of the audience. This production is a must-see for anyone who appreciates powerful storytelling and exceptional theatre.

Next To Normal plays at London’s Wyndham’s Theatre where it books until Saturday 21st September 2024. Tickets are available through London Box Office at https://www.londonboxoffice.co.uk/next-to-normal-tickets