Next to Normal

One of very few musicals which will grace our community theatre stages in 2020, Next to Normal was originally slated for a May season. After an interrupted rehearsal period, it is performing to reduced audience numbers at Melville Theatre. This Pulitzer Prize winning musical is being very warmly received, and appreciated, with its hard hitting and poignant subject matter bringing many audience members to tears.

The setting for this show, designed by director Craig Griffen, is striking, and thought-provoking, with a minimalist set placed upon several tonnes of dirt. Creating some interesting debates about its symbolism, a slight draw-back is that it does send a fair bit of dust into the air, and people with allergies should probably try to sit towards the rear.

Musically this show is very strong, with some outstanding vocal performances and strong instrumental support, under the musical direction of Grace Johnson and Tara Oorjitham. The six piece instrumental ensemble perform from beneath the stage - with the performance using the full depth of Melville’s stage.

Some stellar acting performances emerge from a tight and united ensemble. Central character Diana, whose mental illness and delusion is the catalyst for action, is played with gorgeous voice and great depth and sensitivity by Elethea Sartorelli. She is very well supported by Daniel Burton as her husband Dan, who delivers a very layered, beautifully sung performance.

Lincoln Tapping shines as Diana’s idealised son Gabe - creating this “perfect son” with great charm and spark - his “I’m Alive” being a high point. Georgia McGivern wins audience hearts as overlooked daughter Natalie, showing a lovely character journey.

Oliver Clare is strong as Natalie’s love interest Henry, while Mitch Lawrence completes the cast, playing both Dr. Fine and Dr. Madden, his most serious role to date, showing that he has strength as a dramatic actor. Interestingly, Dr Fine is played as a voice over. While this allows Elethea Sartorelli to play her scenes with the doctor directly out to the audience - which has great impact - I can’t help regretting not seeing more of Lawrence.

While at least one couple in the audience were disappointed that this was not the bright, shiny musical comedy that they were expecting, the overwhelming majority were impressed with this expertly performed version of a very moving musical. Tickets - already in greater demand due to Covid restrictions - will sell very quickly.

Kimberley Shaw