Coe’s “Next to Normal” portrays life as anything but normal
With book and lyrics by Brian Yorkey, music by Tom Kitt and directed by Professor of Theatre Arts Dennis Barnett, “Next to Normal” leads the audience directly into the heart of a family dealing with mental illness and all that accompanies it.
The Goodman family appears to be living the ideal life, but outside appearances can be deceiving. Diana Goodman, wife to Dan and mother to Gabe and Natalie, suffers from bipolar disorder and depression. She routinely seeks doctors, medications and treatments to cope with mental illness. Diana’s family members struggle to deal with their own issues...and Diana’s.
This award-winning rock musical aims to demonstrate the difficult issues surrounding mental illness and grief in modern-day suburbia. Mostly told through song, “Next to Normal” highlights not everything is as it appears to be on the outside.
Performances of “Next To Normal” will be on stage 7:30 p.m. on April 12, 13, 18, 19 and 20 and 2 p.m. on April 14 in the Dows Fine Arts Center at Coe College. Tickets may be purchased online at www.coe.edu/box-office or by phone at 319.399.8600. Ticket prices are $15 for adults and $10 for non-Coe students and seniors.
Coe values its location and relationship with the Cedar Rapids community and looks forward to providing exceptional theatrical productions. Established in 1851, Coe has a national reputation for academic excellence enhanced by a student-centered, highly supportive campus environment. Coe’s success in offering superb academics and exciting co-curricular activities stems in large part from being located in a thriving urban setting that promotes student growth and success. As such, Coe welcomes the community to participate in this event.