Welcome to BU On Broadway’s Production of Next to Normal! This show opened on Broadway in 2009 and made quite an impression. It is one of only 10 musicals to ever win the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, highlighting just how important this story truly is. The show has remained relevant over the years, having recently been revived on the West End… and used as inspiration for a Riverdale episode…
All that being said, this show sits close to my heart. I was a sophomore in high school when I stumbled upon the soundtrack which led to a full watchthrough of a recording. The show moved me in so many ways with a heart-wrenching story coupled with the energy filled score that stuck with me long after watching.
My family has a history of bipolar disorder. This was a fact I had to face as I watched my uncle go through the process of diagnosis and treatment. When his behavior first started changing due to the onset, I was terrified. I felt like I didn’t even know my uncle anymore, a man who was there for my entire childhood. As I got older, I understood more and more. But I also developed a new fear: bipolar is genetic. It is for this reason that the character of Natalie has a special place in my heart, for I find parts of myself in her. You may find this story uncomfortable to watch, but there is a truth to that discomfort when it comes to the reality of living with, and around, bipolar disorder. This story has helped me in many ways confront my own fears and insecurities and I hope it helps others as well.
This show revolves around mental health, a field in which many advancements have been made in the last 15 years since the show was written and produced. I want you to keep that in mind as you watch this story. There are inaccuracies and dramatization, but the heart of the story remains true. The understanding of Bipolar Disorder and ECT has greatly improved, and I encourage you to check out the resources page for more information.
This process was not an easy one, but a truly fulfilling one. I think I speak for every member of this show when I say that. There were many times we would stumble, but we always picked each other up and kept moving forward. We all put in the work to understand the characters and the story we were telling. We were curious, we explored and asked questions. When we didn’t know the answer we worked together or found someone who did. We had fun. One of the most important elements of our rehearsal room was the bond we all built together. The energy when this cast is all in the same room is something truly special, warmth just radiates throughout the room.
Lastly, I want to thank you for coming to see BU On Broadway’s Production of Next to Normal. I am so grateful for the collaborators I got to work with during this whole process. Belen, my assistant director who by now shares the same brain as me and forever has a spot in my heart. Antionette, who kept us organized and on track. Noah, who comes from Berklee to lead an amazing pit and help this cast sound absolutely stunning. Zoe, who dreamed up a vision for the show truly never seen before with their extraordinary choreography. Ruby, who once again has created magic on stage with a beautiful set and technical elements. Erin and Luke, who have captured and promoted our show in the most phenomenal ways. To this cast, I could not ask for a better group to work with. You all bring such talent and light to this show, and have made the process of directing a musical like this so enjoyable and meaningful. This entire process can best be described as a labor of love. I hope that shows as you watch the work of this incredibly talented cast, crew, musicians, producers, and creative team.
On behalf of all of us involved, we sincerely hope you enjoy our production of Next to Normal!
Dylan Gozdziewski, Director
