Today Is Not Over Yet

Next to Normal in New York

New York is one of the United State’s premiere theatre cities. It attracts many people to its Broadway productions, whether they’re coming from out of state or just around the corner. Next to Normal is one of its current musical hits and was just nominated for 11 Tony Awards. Those that it one include Best Orchestration, Best Performance by a Leading Actress in a Musical, and Best Original Score. Tourists visiting the city often enjoy dinner in one of the best restaurants New York City before attending one of its great productions.

Next to Normal was written by Tom Kitt and Brian Yorkey. Kitt wrote the music and Yorkey wrote the lyrics and book. The musical story deals with a mother struggling with Bi-Polar disorder, and its effects on the family. Some of the main themes presented in it are substance abuse, suicide, grief and loss and ethical aspects of psychiatry. These are pretty difficult subjects for a musical to tackle, though it does so effectively and its popularity helps to bring some of these topics into mainstream awareness and discussion. The musical debuted Off-Broadway in 2008 and received critical acclaim and won awards. It was then moved to the Arena Stage in Arlington, Virginia, before opening on Broadway in April of this year.

Alice Ripley stars as the woman who struggles with Bi-Polar disorder and her performance won the Best Leading Actress in a Musical award. She had also won the Drama Desk award for Outstanding Actress for its Off-Broadway premiere. Michael Starobin and Tom Kitt did the orchestration, which also won the Tony. It was nominated for the Best Musical Award, though the production lost to Billy Elliot, The Musical, which is another current hit and took home numerous awards that evening. Next to Normal is playing at the Booth Theatre on West 45th Street, and was directed by Michael Greif. Greif has achieved previous acclaim for his direction of Rent and Grey Gardens.