Next to Normal

Responding to Dr. Fletcher's post Next to Normal by Brian Yorkey and Music by Tom Kitt

This musical was definitely different from most. I enjoyed the fact that this musical was about a particular subject that is hard to handle among a family. The way the script and musical were constructed allowed a lot more emotion to be pulled into this dramatic piece of work. At first reading this play and just listening to the soundtrack was a terrible idea. After further reviewing this play and looking up an okay version on YouTube from one of the original casted Broadway recordings I understood how the play was able to flow more. Especially the scenes where in the beginning of Act I and Gabe was present. 

While reading the script a lot of questions came to mind and confusion when trying to identify who Gabe really was. The idea of making the choice to include Gabe in the first few scenes was quite interesting. It caught my attention and made a more substantial character role of a ghost. As the plot and story continue I was excited to discover what had actually caused this emotional distress throughout the entire family. Another character that poses as an interesting relief and jog of reality is the character Henry. Henry's character grew from a timid little boyfriend to a stable ground for Natalie in the end. I am intrigued by this decision and wonder why Yorkey would invent a stable character for this very emotional and dramatic piece of work. 

Another choice that posed as a motif that ran throughout the play was the display of lights constantly being talked about.  In the beginning minimal lighting and the script mention moments of darkness. Also the song sung by Dan and Diana "A light in the dark" and the final song that closed the play, "Light." These songs mention the struggles these characters have been through and that it was time to see in the light. "We'll wonder how we wandered for so long, so blind" 

Excuse my lateness with this post. I wanted to give credit to this musical because it peaked an interest for me and I wanted to know more and see what elements would best work for this play. I of course like a lot of the technical aspects; but this performance was an eye opening experience that once can enjoy.