The Sul Ross State University Department of Visual and Performing Arts opened its production of Next to Normal on Friday, April 4, at the Studio Theatre in the Francois Fine Arts Building.
Running through April 13, the Tony Award- and Pulitzer Prize-winning musical by Tom Kitt and Brian Yorkey tells the story of Diana Goodman, a suburban mother coping with bipolar disorder and the emotional toll it takes on her family.
Performances are held Thursdays through Saturdays at 7:30 p.m., with Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. Tickets are priced at $15 for general admission and $10 for seniors and children. Veterans and SRSU students, faculty, and staff may attend for free with valid ID. Proceeds benefit the Sul Ross Theatre Program. Tickets can be reserved at bit.ly/sulross-theatre.
Directed by Marjie Scott, Sul Ross associate professor of theatre and cinematic arts, the production features Olivia Pertuso, Justin Hinton, Cristian Sanchez, Jenna Reyes, and Bret Scott. Scenic design is by Ross Fleming, costumes by Carolyn Barrientes, and lighting by Adrian Soto.
The production delves into the challenges of mental illness with moments of humor, honesty, and moving musical performances. Scott noted the show brings attention to topics often avoided, saying it explores not just pain and sadness, but also joy.
Image Credit: SRSU
