Parents suck, siblings drive each other nuts and a rock band accompanies all the ups and downs. Well, for the Goodman family that’s all true. From April 3 through April 6 “Next to Normal” hits Memorial Auditorium at Shippensburg University.

The show is put together through Shippensburg’s own Act V Productions, a student run organization that is celebrating their tenth anniversary this year. The production is directed and performed by Shippensburg students and it’s one hell of a time. The original music of “Next to Normal” is produced by Tom Kitt, with book & lyrics by Brian Yorkey. 0

What’s interesting about “Next to Normal” is that it wasn’t originally written as a full length musical. It started out as a workshop performance and eventually, after being adapted into a full production, worked its way to Broadway in April 2009. This show has won 3 Tony Awards and has been nominated for 11.

Tyler Graybeal put his directorial skills to the test as he lets go of the reins and watches the cast of “Next to Normal” perform this weekend in Memorial Auditorium. Unfortunately, Memorial Auditorium was suffering at the beginning of the school year, but thanks to some dedicated people the show will go on. Memorial Auditorium is located near the front entrance of the university.

The Goodman family is made up of Dan, Diana, Natalie, and Gabe. Dan and Diana met when they were in college, Natalie is a brat, and Gabe is…different. Henry joins the family as Natalie’s love interest and Dr. Fine and Dr. Madden each play a role in trying to help Diana get better. Dan is played by Matt Peck and he really nails the roll of husband and father. During songs like “He’s Not Here” you can hear in his voice how soothing he is towards Diana. Gabby Sheller carries the show as the roll of Dan’s wife, Diana. The show centers on Diana and her struggle with mental illness. Sheller is a voice to be heard.

Natalie is played by Dallas Johnson and does a great job of reminding people of what it’s like to be a teenager when she introduces Henry, played by Tim Hippensteel, to her father. Hippensteel does a wonderful job at being the gentle boy from school and his abilities shine in songs like, “Perfect for You”. Gabe, played by Arden Campbell, is that sarcastic voice in the back of his mothers mind, but his singing voice is a showcase of passionate melodies, especially during “I’m Alive”. Jen Bedford who plays both doctors is a fierce voice that amps up the rock and roll sound of the pit band – which is entirely live.

The thing about “Next to Normal” is that I want you to go see is not just because of the actors, musical aspect, or venue, but because of the underlying message. This production finally opens up new doors for the way mental illness is perceived and performed.

The creators of “Next to Normal” took the day-to-day journey of living with yourself, an illness and the horrific battles humans face and made it relatable. They didn’t have Diana ripping her hair out or in a straight jacket. They had her desperate, wide open, and desiring to feel whole again. This musical is raw and smacks you right in the face – in a good way. It’s not going to be good – it’s going to be great.

Tickets are $5 with SU ID and $10 for general public, for more information go to http://actv.ticketleap.com/next-to-normal/.

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