Next to Normal at Walterdale Theatre - Opening Night!

Last night we opened the final show of Walterdale Theatre's 59th Season, Next to Normal, directed by Artistic Director Bethany Hughes. It's a great show to close out this season and I was incredibly moved by the performances. Walterdale's intimacy gave the show something more than I have experienced seeing it previously in a much larger theatre and abstracted set allowed me to see it again with new eyes.

With only a cast of 6, the show itself is a huge sing and everyone onstage held their own. It's emotional and funny and powerful. The cast is terrific - Monica Roberts, Mike Harding, Mark Sinongco, Fiona Cain, Damon Pitcher, and Trevor J. Worden. They work together well and there are no weak links. Vocally they are all very strong and handle the rock score beautifully. They also tell this story of mental illness with respect and intelligence.

If you are one to tear up, I recommend bringing tissues as several people were in need of those on Opening Night!

Next to Normal runs to July 14.
Click here for tickets.

Photo Credit: Scott Henderson, Henderson Images.

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