ShenanArts' NEXT TO NORMAL Begins Tonight

Next to Normal is a contemporary family drama, about a woman's struggle with mental illness, and the effects of her illness on her family. At the opening of the show, Diana seems to have an ideal life ?she is educated, well-off, and happily married with two teenage children. But it soon becomes clear that all is not as it seems. Diana has bipolar disorder, plagued with anxieties, mood swings and delusions that trace back to a family tragedy 16 years earlier and are growing worse with time.

During the course of the play, Diana goes through a series of doctors and treatments, in response to and sometimes triggering the ups and downs of her illness. Under the care of her primary doctor, Dr. Madden, Diana takes medication, talks through her issues and problems, and undergoes the more controversial option of electroconvulsive therapy.

Meanwhile, her husband Dan confronts his own confusion and depression; daughter Natalie deals with isolation and a budding romance with a fellow music student, Henry; and son Gabe serves as Diana's confidante and link to a happier past. Though the family strives to establish some sort of normality, and each character seeks his or her own peace and happiness, the ties that bind slowly and inexorably unravel around them.

Next to Normal is considered a rock musical, and much of the story is told through song. The melodies are often interwoven, and the action moves back and forth among simultaneous scenes, as well as between literal and psychological realities. Though serious in focus, the play is full of surprises and humor as well

Tickets: Adults $17, Seniors (55+) $14, College Students $14, Children (under 18) $10

*Please note this show contains adult language and themes and is recommended for mature audiences only*

Tickets are available four ways
1) In our box office during operating hours (listed below)
2) On our website: www.shenanarts.org
3) At the door prior to the show (doors open 45 minutes before curtain)
4) At Black Swan Books & Music in Downtown Staunton

Special Opportunities

*We are pleased to partner with Jimmy Anderson's Casual Gourmet in Staunton! Park at the theatre and hop on a complimentary shuttle to the restaurant, which will bring you back to the theatre after your meal! Shuttles will run until 6:30.

*On Sunday May 4th at 5:30, following the matinee performance, we will be holding a panel discussion, led by health care professionals. This discussion will cover mental health issues and is open to the public (even if you did not attend the performance).

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