Photo Flash: The Media Theatre presents NEXT TO NORMAL
By: A.A. Cristi Feb. 02, 2018
"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. It is on at The Media Theatre now throughFebruary 25. For tickets, visit mediatheatre.org or call 610-891-0100.
The Pulitzer Prize winning pop/ rock musical is written by Tom Kitt (Music) and Brian Yorkey (Book and Lyrics), and was nominated for 11 Tony Awards in 2010, going on to win three of the prestigious honors (Best Score, Best Orchestrations, and Best Actress-Alice Ripley).
Most of the story is told through song, with some scenes taking place simultaneously, and also there are both literal and psychological realities within the narrative. While the musical takes on serious issues, there is- at times- humor which comes at unexpected moments in the script.
Krissy Fraelich plays the lead role of Diana, the suburban mom with two teenage children whose life is not all that it seems. Diana deals with bipolar disorder, goes through a series of doctors, and strives to establish a 'normal' household. Krissy was seen on The Media Theatre stage in "Gypsy", "A Christmas Story: The Musical", and "The Addams Family". She has performed on practically every stage in the Philadelphia region, was in the original Broadway cast of "The Civil War", and the National Tour of "Joseph and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat".
Ben Dibble plays her husband, Dan, who is dealing with his own depression. Ben is a two-time Barrymore Award winner for Excellence in Theatre and was seen as John Adams in "1776" at The Media Theatre. He performs frequently at The Walnut Street Theatre and The Arden.
Their daughter Natalie, played by Molly Sorensen, is having a new romance with a music student (Henry, portrayed by Christopher Infantino).
Ronnie Keller plays their son, Gabe, who is very central to the action of the musical. He was just seen in "Beauty and The Beast" at Media, and was also featured in "West Side Story" and "Side Show".
Doctor Madden, Diana's primary physician whom she sees in 'fantasy' portrayals on occasion, is brought to life on stage by Patrick Ludt.
Geoffrey Goldberg, who directed and choreographed the critically acclaimed production of "Billy Elliot: The Musical" at The Media Theatre two seasons back, returns to bring "Next To Normal" to the stage. He is based in NYC as a director, choreographer, and writer. He has worked on Broadway (Associate Kids Director for "Mary Poppins") and off-Broadway ("Everyday" at the West Village Festival).
He is currently developing three new musicals, has created new works for Gypsy of The Year and Easter Bonnet Competition on Broadway, The Kennedy Center, as well as award-winning film projects. Visit his website: www.Geoffrey-Goldberg.com
Photos by Greg Carroccio
Ronnie Keller as Gabe
Christopher Infantino as Henry, with Molly Sorensen as Natalie
Krissy Fraelich as Diana, with Gabe's birthday cake
Patrick Ludt as Doctor Madden with Krissy Fraelich as Diana
The cast of "Next To Normal" at The Media Theatre
Ben Dibble as Dan with Krissy Fraelich as Diana.
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