REVIEW: Next To Normal

This fast paced musical is more like a modern opera; there is little unsung dialogue and it’s full of emotional depth and character exploration. Written by Brian Yorkey and Tom Kitt, it has received high accolades and even a Pulitzer Prize in its brief 10 year history.  Lane Cove Theatre Company’s current production of Next To Normal does it more than justice. In their small resident theatre in St Aidan’s, they manage to create a compelling, professional show that is moving and entertaining. 

The story centres around a suburban American family. Diana (Miriam Rhihani) is a wife and mother struggling with unassailable mental illness brought on by the death of her infant son 18 years ago. Her stalwart husband, Dan (Trent Gardiner) does everything he can to support her, seeking out cures and treatments, and maintaining saint-like hope and patience. Their 16 year old daughter, Natalie (Chelsea Taylor), though not yet born when her brother died, feels his loss acutely as it has rendered her almost invisible behind the grief and struggle of her parents. The son, Gabe (Christopher O’Shea) makes an appearance as a character, manifested as his 18 year old would-be self by the desperate imagination of his mother. Doctor Madden (Brent Dolahenty) is the good-looking and persistent psychiatrist who treats Diana, going from pills to analysis to shock therapy, but to no avail. Henry (Luka Bozic) is Natalie’s new boyfriend. He’s a little geeky, but ernest and devoted to Natalie. 

Every one is incredibly strong and convincing in their role, nailing the American accents, finding the core of their characters and melding with each other beautifully. The four piece band is tight and unobtrusive; the sound quality for such a small, improvised space is excellent. The choreography and set design are very effective. Though the material may be dark and potentially disturbing at times, it is offset by genuinely humorous moments and very appealing actors. 

On a side note, the view from this Longueville theatre is absolutely stunning.

Until Aug 25. The Performance Space, St Aidan’s, 1 Christina St, Longueville. $15-$27+b.f. Tickets & Info: www.lanecovetheatrecompany.com

Reviewed By Rita Bratovich