BWW Previews: NYNE'S NEXT TO NORMAL DEBUTS at Powerstories Theatre

Anyone who has bonded during the run of a show can appreciate the reluctance felt about leaving those special people. Because of rehearsals and performances, you often see your castmates more than your own family and those friendships formed can last a lifetime. The cast, debuting as the first outside theatre company to perform at Powerstories Theatre, faced just that conundrum at the close of their last show together.

A solution was found in intimate cast size of the 2008 American rock musical, "Next to Normal", book and lyrics written by Brian Yorkey and music by Tom Kitt.

A passion project for the cast, directed by Devan Kelty and musically directed by Joseph Scarbrough, "Next to Normal" centers on a mother who struggles with mental illness and the impact on her family.

Featuring a live band of 5 musicians and running January 3-11, "Next to Normal" showcases a small cast of seven: Bethany S. Moore as Diana, Erin Johnson as Diana, Gabriel Flores as Dan, Rachel Rodriguez as Natalie, Devan Kelty as Gabe, Zach Finley as Henry and Nic Harrington as Dr. Madden/Dr. Fine.

"We are honored to be at Powerstories. We really like the space and hope us being part of the pilot program helps Fran's theatre, helps us and is mutually beneficial for everyone," said Gabe.

He said that the song "Maybe" in the latter half of the performance is the emotional center of the show and will help explain the unusual musical title.

"The material is very evocative, and the kind of musical that not many people know, but those who listen to it, it just sticks with them. Even though most of us may not have mental illness in our family, we all have family dynamics that we have to deal with," explained Gabe. "The message of the musical is a family has to stick together and support each other to see another day."

He described that because the cast was already so comfortable with each other, it was easier for them to be vulnerable as the emotional characters.

"Being a part of a show that helps break the stigma and normalizes speaking about mental illness, and being able to bring it to this area is so important and awesome," said Rachel. "I also think anyone can see a little bit of themselves in this show."

Zachary said that he's loved the production for a very long time.

"It's a dream come true to be able to share this experience with incredible friends and castmates."

Bethany added, "We'll give EVERYONE an epic show."

"Next to Normal" is at Powerstories Theatre, 2015 Kennedy Blvd., Tampa on January 3-6. Showtimes are Thursday and Friday - 8 pm, Saturday at 2 pm and 8 pm, and Sunday, 3 pm. Tickets are $20 and available at NYNEShows.com.

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