NOTE FROM THE DIRECTOR
In 2009, I saw Next to Normal on Broadway shortly before its official opening night and then again with its second cast shortly before its closing. I sat in the front row and watched with tears streaming down my face and feeling so completely inspired by the amazing rock score and heartbreakingly honest book.
Although this is a story about a woman with bipolar disorder, itʼs also a story about a family and about how hard it is to be a mother/father/daughter/son/teenager/husband/ wife/patient/doctor/human being. I think thatʼs why so many people can relate to this show. At its heart, Next to Normal is a new great family drama in the style of Arthur Miller and Eugene OʼNeill. It just also happens to be a rock musical.
Working with this particular cast of actors and musicians and designers has been an absolute dream. The level of dedication and talent in this group is awe inspiring. A very special thank you to our stage manager Maggie, who is the best Girl Friday anyone could have, and is literally the most organized person you will ever meet in your life. I am so thankful, too, for our amazing musical director Clay and my assistant director Gina. The passion that they both have for this project has been infectious and an inspiration to both the cast and myself.
Thanks to the staff at the Downtown Cabaret for letting us perform at this wonderful venue, and to the BTC Board of Directors, staff and volunteers. And lastly, thank you to my husband, who is playing the role of Dan, for letting his wife boss him around the past few weeks.
I hope that you enjoy this story. And if at any point you feel sad for these characters or worry that you will leave this theater feeling depressed or despondent, please know that this is a story about hope. “The darkest skies will someday see the sun. When our long night is done, there will be light.”
Christy McIntosh
Director, Next to Normal
