Next To Normal
Ghostlight, 2026
8/10
Tom Kitt and Brian Yorkey’s rock score is captured here across 2 discs of live recordings from the Donmar West End that emits dialogue and music from the inimitable cast.
The quick blast of “Prelude” starts with warm keys, dense guitar and loud drums before the voices enter in a calmer mood, and it isn’t long until “Perfect For You” presents Eleanor Worthington-Cox and Jack Ofrecio’s voices alongside stirring strings and cozy keys.
Deeper into disc 1, the intimate “I Dreamed A Dance” spotlights Caissie Levy’s expressive voice amid much beauty before Jack Wolfe’s pipes enter, while disc 2 gets rugged with the fuller rock presence of “Wish I Was Here”, which layers the vocals strategically.
Further into the back half, Levy, Worthington-Cox, Parker and Ofrecio are all present for the firm dynamics of “Why Stay?/A Promise” that alternates between singing and dialogue fluidly.
Residing close to the end, the elegant “So Anyway” is just Levy’s soft and soaring voice amid the eloquent keys and gripping strings, and “Light” exits with a heartfelt duet that builds into an ebullient finish.
A play that tells the story of the effects of bipolar disorder and the death of a firstborn child and its repercussions on a family, the subject matter is intense, and that’s often reflected in the raw and powerful performances.
Travels well with: Soundtrack Of The American Soldier; Haymarket Opera Company- Artaverse