Theater Advisor

A Review of Next To Normal (Broadway)

By Cody D., July 19, 2010

  • Acting
    5 stars
  • Choreography
    3 stars
  • Dancing
    4 stars
  • Direction
    2 stars
  • Lyrics
    5 stars
  • Music
    5 stars
  • Overall
    4 stars
  • Production
    5 stars
  • Singing
    4 stars
  • Story
    4 stars
  • Writing
    3 stars

I saw Next To Normal (Broadway) on 07/18/10. Overall, I'd say it was a 4-star rating. I'd summarize it by saying “An interesting show with a brilliant score, that is unfortunately muddled by somewhat lazy direction”

I had a good time and left the show feeling excited and entertained. I'd describe the show as moving, dark, and though-provoking. The music was a highlight of the show because it is invigorating and well-written. If this were a movie, I'd rate it PG-13. I would recommend this show to teens and adults but not to kids.

I saw this show because it was Alice Ripley, Brian d'Arcy James, and Jennifer Damiano's last performance. I would see it again. I sat in the center mezzanine area of the theater. The view was perfect and the seats were very comfortable.

I've seen this show twice and liked it much more the second time. I really enjoy the score and the actors are uniformly great, but the writing is not quite up to par with the fantastic music and the direction is lazy and a bit confusing. However, the show is very moving and overall an enjoyable experience.

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