Next To Normal – Sensory Friendly Performance presented by Abilities First

This performance is designed to create a welcoming and comfortable arts experience for people with autism, sensory sensitivities, or other social, learning or cognitive disabilities. Modifications for this performance may include:

– lower sound levels

– lights remaining on at a low level during the performance

– a reduction of strobe lighting and lighting focused on the audience

– guests are free to talk and leave their seats during the performance

– space throughout the venue for standing and movement

About the Musical

Next to Normal, with book and lyrics by Brian Yorkey and music by Tom Kitt, explores how one suburban household copes with crisis and mental illness. Winner of three 2009 Tony Awards, including Best Musical Score and the 2010 Pulitzer Prize.

Dad’s an architect; Mom rushes to pack lunches and pour cereal; their daughter and son are bright, wise-cracking teens, appearing to be a typical American family. And yet their lives are anything but normal because the mother has been battling bipolar disorder for 16 years. Next to Normal takes audiences into the minds and hearts of each character, presenting their family’s story with love, sympathy, and heart.

Featuring Sally Trtan, Seth Dylan Hunt, Teghan Hailey Jade, Miles Stamper, Colter Camp, Kaitlyn Wilson, and Nick Harms. Directed by Joshua David Smith and music direction by Kathryn Cole.

Runtime
2 hours and 20 minutes with one 15 minute intermission

Rated
PG-13

Trigger Warnings
Please note that Next to Normal includes depictions of various mental health conditions and disorders including bipolar disorder, anxiety, and grief. The production also includes depictions and discussion of drug use, self-harm, death, and medical trauma.

If you or someone you know is in a mental health, suicide, or substance use crisis, help is available.
Reach out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by calling or texting 988, or chatting at https://988lifeline.org/.

For immediate assistance in all crises: 

• Call 911 for emergency services
• Go to the nearest hospital emergency room