The University of Indianapolis Theatre Department will host the Pulitzer Prize-winning musical “Next to Normal” in Ransburg Auditorium in Esch Hall on April 15-17 at 7pm and April 18 at 2 and 7pm.
The musical is written by Brian Yorkey with a soundtrack by Tom Kitt, and it follows Diana Goodman, a suburban mother living with bipolar disorder, according to NPR. Topics like mental illness and grief are highlighted in the play, which affect her relationship with her husband and two children.
At first glance, the Goodman family appears to be a “semi-normal household.” However, the story reveals a deeper struggle as the family copes with the death of their son, an event that alters their family dynamic, according to The Independent. As Diana searches for stability through various treatments, the musical depicts grief, trauma and the varying ways families attempt to hold themselves together while coping with emotional damage.
Valeyn Davis, a UIndy freshman secondary English education major, plays Natalie Goodman, Diana’s daughter. Davis said some audience members might relate strongly to Natalie, who deals with academic pressure, emotional neglect and a desire to be acknowledged by her parents, as her mother’s illness dominates the household.
“A lot of young audience members will relate to the academic side, because Natalie’s character’s whole journey is wanting to be seen by her mother or even her father,” Davis said.
Natalie’s story highlights the quieter struggles of family members who are often overlooked when dealing with mental illness, making her character especially meaningful to student audiences, according to Davis.
Ainsleigh Cardone, a first-year psychology master’s student who plays Diana, said the experience has been both challenging and meaningful. She said that because this show addresses some heavy topics, UIndy counselors will be available at all performances. According to Cardone, audiences should come to the show with an open mind, as its emotional intensity has even impacted the cast who have spent months in preparation.
Actors have been required to engage deeply with their characters’ emotional experiences, and the production team has emphasized the importance of creating a supportive environment for students throughout the rehearsal process, according to Cardone. She said cast members have also been encouraged to separate themselves from their roles after rehearsals and performances.
“The audience is going to see something that might make them really uncomfortable,” Cardone said. “But that discomfort is important because it forces people to confront topics that are often avoided.” As opening night approaches, tickets can be found on Eventbrite. Up to one ticket is free for UIndy students, provided they enter their student ID before purchasing. Tickets are $10 for the general public.
