Next to Normal

Next to Normal - Greasepaint and Stage Lights - Theatre Radio Show

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Next to Normal

Next to Normal

Wyndham's Theatre - West End

(Review Complete)

(Click here for Narration)

“Wow! Just Wow!!! – It’s Disturbing and utterly brilliant”!

What an evening this was! Next to Normal is disturbing and absolutely brilliant! From the very first moment this show challenges the audience to join the cast on their journey into the darkest recesses of the mind.

Diana has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and we join her as she is about to have a catastrophic breakdown. Husband Dan tries his best to help and support but in the end it becomes too much for him.

As the show progresses we learn more about what has happened to cause Diana’s problems and by the end it rips your heart out! Diana is superbly played by Caissie Levy. She is a highly experienced actress, having created the role of Elsa in Frozen and played Elphaba in Wicked, and the energy and commitment she brings to the role is breathtaking.

Jamie Parker as Diana’s husband Dan turns in a highly sensitive performance. I have seen him in a number of contrasting parts over the years and have never failed to be impressed.

The children, Gabe, Natalie and Natalies boyfriend Henry are all beautifully played by three young actors at the beginning of their careers. Jack Wolfe who plays Gabe is definitely one to watch for the future. He won an Olivier nomination for this part and it was very well deserved indeed. Natalie, the daughter who at times looks as though she will have as bad a breakdown as her mother, is also very impressive, excellent acting and a great voice. Jack Ofrecio is the slightly geeky boyfriend of Natalie. He is such a sweet, kind character and Jack plays him with great sensitivity.

This is an extremely well written show where script and music interweave to create an astonishing piece of theatre. I was utterly captivated from the very start and by the end it was impossible to leave the theatre unmoved. This show is literally unmissable!

Reviewer: Julia Rufey

We are Gifted tickets so that in return we may give an honest review. All comments are those of the reviewer and theirs alone.