Next to Normal at Riverside Center for the Performing Arts

Next to Normal, an emotional powerhouse musical, explores a family's struggle with the effects, impact and treatment of mental illness with raw honesty and emotional depth. Dad's an architect; Mom rushes to pack lunches and pour cereal; their daughter and son are bright, wise-cracking teens, appearing to be a typical American family. And yet, their lives are anything but normal. Next to Normal takes audiences into the minds and hearts of each character: Mom's 16-year battle with bipolar disorder and grief, Dad's efforts to keep the family together and move forward, the daughter's desperate attempts to be noticed by her parent's while exploring a new relationship, and the son who impacts them all. The family's story is presented with love, sympathy and heart, bringing audiences along on a journey they may feel is familiar even if terrifying. With book and lyrics by Brian Yorkey and music by Tom Kitt, the original production, starring Tony winner Alice Ripley, won three 2009 Tony Awards, including Best Musical Score and the 2010 Pulitzer Prize.