Revival Theatre brings Broadway hit ‘Next to Normal’ to CSPS Hall

Normal isn't what most folks want to experience as entertainment. "Next to Normal" sounds about just as inviting, but the the inspired rock musical about a mother and her struggles with a worsening bipolar disorder and the impact it has on her family, was a surprise Broadway hit.

The heavy and compelling "Next to Normal," which will be performed courtesy of Revival Theatre Company beginning Friday through March 30 at CSPS Hall, addresses grief, depression, suicide and drug abuse below the canopy of seemingly sunny suburbia.

"’Next to Normal’ is a groundbreaking piece on Broadway, kind of like how ‘Rent’ and ‘Hamilton’ were groundbreaking on Broadway," Revival Theatre Company director Brian Glick said while calling from his Cedar Rapids home. "’Next to Normal' put mental health on a mainstream stage. It brings awareness to the bipolar condition in a way that's informative and entertaining."

When "Next to Normal" opened on Broadway in 2009, there were those who questioned how a play focusing on struggles with mental illness and the impact on family would fare.

However, "Next to Normal" was a commercial success and was nominated for 11 Tony Awards and won three: Best Original Score, Best Orchestration and Best Performance by a Leading Actress in a Musical.

"Next to Normal" also won the 2010 Pulitzer Prize for Drama. "It's an incredible story," Glick said. "That's why it's had such a life. It recently had a revival in London. I can see why. Mental health will always be a relevant subject. It's such a cathartic piece."

The poignant story about the family is relatable for many since depression is common. "The play is more relevant than ever when you consider the climate of our country and how we're living in the post-COVID era," Glick said. "Our mental health is being challenged. Not everyone is bipolar or depressed, but those suffering with mental health issues impact those around them, such as family and friends."

Realism is the goal for Glick. "I want the actors to portray the characters as honestly as possible," Glick said. "We owe it to the material."

It's not surprising that "Next to Normal" won Best Original Score since it's comprised of a moving amalgam of rock, jazz and classical. "The score is another good reason to experience 'Next to Normal,’“ Glick said. "The music is tremendous."

Technology plays a huge part in the production. "The set is another character in 'Next to Normal,’" Glick said. "It has a heartbeat. There are glass walls and LED lighting, and it all has this powerful effect. It's so visceral."

Glick was surprised to learn about the state of mental health in Iowa. "It was interesting to hear the data about the lack of treatment for mental health issues," Glick said. "The question is, how can we make improvements?"

Glick is also always trying to enhance Revival, where he has been the director for the last decade. "The goal is to try to make every production better than the last," Glick said. "I've been directing theater for the last 15 years, and there is nothing I'm more passionate about. I believe people will really enjoy 'Next to Normal.’" There is no play out there quite like it."

The West End production was filmed in September 2024. That version is scheduled to appear on PBS's "Great Performances" in May 2025.

"I'm not surprised that 'Next to Normal’ came back and is still going strong," Glick said. "It's a special and relevant play that people should experience. It's great that a play like 'Next to Normal' is out there since it informs and entertains, which isn't easy to do. I'm really enjoying working on this production. I can't wait to see how the audience reacts."