Next to Normal takes you on a journey to heal the invisible burden of grief and mental illness.  

Words Patricia Lanzagarita
Photos courtesy of Sandbox Collective
February 1, 2025

Though time has passed, mental health remains a sensitive topic—often left out of conversations or stigmatized when addressed.  

This is why the subject has found its place in various art forms, offering a deeper and more comprehensive understanding. One such example is the Pulitzer and Tony Award-winning musical Next to Normal.  

Dynamics of a Family  

Next to Normal features music by Tom Kitt, with a book and lyrics by Brian Yorkey. The musical tells the story of a family grappling with life-shattering events that disrupt each member’s relationships.  

The play showcases the complexities of family dynamics as its characters cope with the lingering effects of grief and mental illness.  

Breaking the Stigma  

This award-winning musical is the first of its kind to openly explore the complexities of mental health and illness. The central character, Diana Goodman, has been living with bipolar disorder for 16 years.  

During an exclusive press visit to a Next to Normal rehearsal, Art+ had the opportunity to preview some of the songs from the musical. The music and lyrics powerfully convey the immense burden of mental illness—not only for those who suffer from it, but also for their loved ones.  

By openly addressing mental health, Next to Normal is more than just a play; it is a powerful tool for raising awareness about the struggles many face in silence.  

A Sense of Healing  

As the musical explores themes of love, loss, illness, and grief, it also offers a sense of comfort and healing—reminding the audience they are not alone. During the rehearsal, the cast shared that the performance would make viewers “feel everything” as they watch the story unfold.  

Next to Normal is a journey of healing, acknowledging the beauty in being vulnerable, feeling pain, experiencing loss, and confronting grief.  

The musical will be available for viewing starting February 1, 2025, at the Power Mac Center Spotlight Blackbox Theater in Circuit Makati.