Artists Rep Opens NEXT TO NORMAL, 4/24

Next to Normal is described as "a heart-swelling, acutely searing dissection of a mother’s mental illness and her suburban family trying to hold it all together. A brave, powerfully emotional musical takes on new territory, with the musical format and taking on serious issues, with mix of raw energy and grace."

Next to Normal was nominated for 11 and won three 2009 Tony Awards. It also garnered the elusive Pulitzer Prize for Drama in 2010. The show was a runaway, smash hit on Broadway, boasted successful international tour and was workshopped twice at the Village Theatre outside Seattle, but Artists Rep will offer Portland audiences Next to Normal’s Northwest regional theatre premiere.

“It’s a rooted, deep exploration of pain, sorrow and love with no easy out or Hollywood ending, but ultimately it is a hopeful story,” said Director Jon Kretzu at the production’s first rehearsal. “I knew when we decided to do this show that Susannah Mars had to play this part,” Kretzu continued. “Her voice, her heart, she’s best when she takes risks and I can’t wait to be on the tightrope with her and all the actors who will need to go way off the cliff and skirt the abyss.”

Joining Mars (Diana) will be William Wadhams (seasoned rocker of the ‘80s band Animotion) as her husband, Dan. Other actors making their Artists Rep debut are Meghan McCandless (Natalie), John Debkowski (Gabe), Todd Tschida (Henry) and Jared Q. Miller (The Doctors).

Tickets:                                      $25-$50; Students $20

Box Office:                               503.241.1278 or www.artistsrep.org

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Portland Awards - Live Stats

Best Musical - Top 3

1. WAITRESS (Broadway Rose Theatre)

8.2% of votes

2. SWEENEY TODD (Twilight Theater Company)

6.7% of votes

3. FUN HOME (Metropolitan Performing Arts)

6.3% of votes

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