Next to Normal at Ray of Light Theatre

Next to Normal, with book and lyrics by Brian Yorkey and music by Tom Kitt, is a groundbreaking, emotion-fueled rock musical that dives deep into the complexities of mental illness and its impact on a seemingly typical suburban family. Winner of three Tony Awards—including Best Musical Score—and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, Next to Normal has been hailed by critics across the nation as one of the best shows of the year, earning praise from The New York Times, Rolling Stone, The Washington Post, and The Los Angeles Times.

On the surface, the Goodman family appears to have it all—a successful architect dad, a stay-at-home mom juggling the daily grind, and two sharp, wise-cracking teens. But beneath the facade of normalcy lies a heartbreaking reality: the mother, Diana, has been battling bipolar disorder for 16 years, and her condition has torn the family apart in ways they can’t escape. As each character grapples with their own emotional turmoil, Next to Normal takes audiences on a raw, unflinching journey through grief, love, and resilience.

With an unforgettable rock score that pulses with emotion, Next to Normal is a powerful, honest exploration of mental health, the impact of illness on a family, and the unspoken struggles that shape us all. It's a musical that will make you laugh, cry, and reflect on what it truly means to be “normal.”