The desire to live a life that’s next to normal sits at the heart of this powerful production delving into mental illness, grief and the impact on a family.

What appears to be a perfect suburban life is quickly dispelled when Diana, the mother, starts making sandwiches — on the floor. Whilst the story centres on Diana, Next to Normal beautifully captures the ripple effect her illness has on the rest of the family. Each family member struggles to hold it together, responding in their own way to her illness — some helpfully, others not. Director Sarah Shanahan notes, “I think this helps the audience to see all the different perspectives from every angle. I feel like everyone watching will relate to one of the characters.”

With book and lyrics by Brian Yorkey and music by Tom Kitt, this Tony Award-winning and Pulitzer Prize-winning rock musical may seem an unusual way to explore mental health, but Shanahan explains, “The songs let us into Diana’s head in a way dialogue alone couldn’t. It’s a rock musical because the power behind this music genre brings out the emotional elements in the story perfectly. I think mental illness can sometimes feel like a rock concert in your mind.”

Mental illness and grief are usually treated quite seriously, almost clinically, on stage. Whilst Next to Normal doesn’t shy away from the emotional weight of the story, it interjects snippets of humour through its witty script, bringing light, hope and relief amid the heavy subject matter. “Without it the story would be hard to digest,” Shanahan reflects.  

In one memorable number, Diana rattles off the plethora of medication she is on, singing, “These are a few of my favourite pills”, as the score cleverly parodies “My Favourite Things” from The Sound of Music. The rock music keeps the production charged with energy, particularly during its darkest moments.

Izzy Tilden stars as Diana, throwing herself into a role that holds personal significance as someone living with bipolar disorder herself. Hugh Arthur, as son Gabe, belts out electrifying vocals, while Raven Swinkels (Natalie) captures the frustration and angst of an often-neglected teenage daughter growing up in a household that revolves around her mother. Simon Donovan evokes empathy as Diana’s devoted, desperate husband, Dan, while Nye Morrison impresses with his strong vocals as Natalie’s boyfriend, Henry. Brayden Macfarlane-Walker confidently commands attention in the dual roles of Dr Madden and Dr Fine.

The two-level set design incorporates the live band into the action. Whilst the musicians add to the production, the audio occasionally overpowers the performers, making some lyrics difficult to discern. Alaska Jarvis has cleverly created an intentionally, shaky broken set of the family home. The lack of structural integrity mirrors the fragile family dynamics.

At just over two hours, the production could do with a sharper edit, as some of the scenes feelings repetitive. Yet Shanahan’s heartfelt direction ensures that despite tackling suicide, grief, drug abuse and mental illness, the audience is eased through the emotional material.  

Next to Normal is a confronting, intense watch. Audiences may not agree with the decisions and actions of the characters but hopefully as Shanahan puts it, “It creates a better understanding of those around us and encourages us to respect everyone you meet as you don’t always know their story. I hope everyone walks away feeling more human than they did before. Pain is a part of life and adversity is a privilege.” After all, who wants to be normal?

3.5 stars

Presented by Sydney Musical Theatre Next to Normal is playing at Greenhalgh Theatre in Lindfield Sydney until 26 July 2026.

Run Time:  2 hours and 15 minutes (including interval)

For tickets visit Sydney Musical Theatre