Victoria Theatre Association Opens NEXT TO NORMAL, 5/7

Victoria Theatre Association presents NEXT TO NORMAL, a show considered to be the "rarest of Broadway species" (TimeOut New York). Produced by The Human Race Theatre Company, NEXT TO NORMAL appears on the Victoria Theatre stage May 7-19, 2013 as part of the Premier Health Broadway Series. Tickets are on sale now at the Ticket Center Stage Box Office, by phone at (937) 228-3630, toll-free (888) 228-3630 or online at www.ticketcenterstage.com.

"I am thrilled to be a part of this production" said Trisha Rapier who plays Diana, a mother who is coping with bipolar disorder. "NEXT TO NORMAL is a rock musical that will take the audience on a journey of discovery through the lives of the Goodman family who are dealing with the mental illness of their mother. To accurately portray a woman whose emotions have such extreme highs and lows, and ultimately make the audience root for Diana as she takes the painful steps to get better is a challenge, and as an actor, it's a dream!"

Director Scott Stoney said he is "delighted to be directing this incredible collection of artists-designers, musicians and actors-in producing this landmark new musical. NEXT TO NORMAL clearly demonstrates how flexible the form is as it tackles mental illness within the American family using rock musical idioms as its language. Though the journey is complex and difficult, the outcome is ultimately rewarding and hopeful. I guarantee you have never seen or heard anything like this show before."

A musical with book and lyrics by Brian Yorkey and music by Tom Kitt, NEXT TO NORMAL is one of the most talked about new show on Broadway. Produced by The Human Race Theatre Company, this is a musical "that pushes Broadway in new directions" (Rolling Stone). This riveting musical won the 2010 Pulitzer Prize for Drama and the 2009 Tony Award for Best Score.

NEXT TO NORMAL contains strong language and adult themes, and may not be suitable for all ages. Age recommendation is for ages 17 and up.

Don't forget about Chase Background on Broadway! One hour prior to select performances, the Education & Engagement Department provides informative and entertaining talks by theatre professionals, focusing on production history, musical highlights, and insider anecdotes of the show. These pre-show chats are free and open to all ticket holders. These talks will take place Tuesday-Friday, May 14-17 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, May 18 at 1 p.m.

The Human Race Theatre Company is the Dayton region's professional theatre company. In their 26th season, this company offers an alternative to mainstream theatre in the Dayton community by providing productions that are thought provoking and challenging. As their name suggests, they present universal themes that explore the human condition and startle us all into a renewed awareness of ourselves.

Tickets for NEXT TO NORMAL are on sale now and start at just $40. Tickets are available at the Ticket Center Stage Box Office, by phone at (937) 228-3630, toll-free (888) 228-3630 or online at www.ticketcenterstage.com. Ticket Center Stage Box Office hours are Monday - Friday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m., Saturday noon - 4 p.m., and two hours prior to each performance.