ABSTRACT
Watching the 2009 Broadway production unfold on tape at the New York library for the performing arts at Lincoln center in March 2020. Working with the producer and director, the creators refined and renamed their show to the more serious, non-winking Next to Normal. “Add to the list of shows tackling offbeat topics ‘Next to Normal’ – a girl loses marbles story about a young mother who is mentally ill. Back in New York, this time on Broadway in 2009 at the Booth Theatre, “Next to Normal” was richer and more resonant. The production was nominated for eleven Tony Awards, including one for best musical, the annual top honor that went to Billy Elliot. Next to Normal won three Tonys, including one for best score, lead actress Alice Ripley, and orchestrations.
