Next to Normal returns to Chapel off Chapel this August

Next-to-Normal-photo-courtesy-of-James-Terry-CollectiveJames Terry Collective is thrilled to announce the return of Next to Normal at Chapel off Chapel for a limited season from 4 August 2021.

Previously announced, this production will star Queenie van de Zandt in the leading role of Diana Goodman, the matriarch of a modern-day family, traumatised by loss and the unpredictable affects sparked by her bipolar diagnosis.

The cast includes Tyran Parke as Dan Goodman, Sam Richardson as Gabriel ‘Gabe’ Goodman, Melanie Bird as Natalie Goodman, Liam Wigney as Henry, and Ross Chisari as Dr Madden/Dr Fine. The production will be directed by Mark Taylor (RENT, Bright Star) Choreographed by Freya List (RENT, Chess), and Musical Direction by Nathan Firmin (Bright Star, Memphis).

Next to Normal with music by Tom Kitt, and Book & Lyrics by Brian Yorkey, is a powerful rock musical that grapples with the effects of trauma and mental illness. It was nominated for 11 Tony Awards, winning Best Original Score and Best Orchestration, followed by the Pulitzer Prize for Drama.

In line with current COVID restriction, seating capacity for this season is reduced to just 35%, capped at 100 patrons per show. “Whilst the production will continue to run at a loss with current capacity restrictions – there’s no greater reward than sharing this show with Melbourne audiences,” said Producer James Terry.

“Whilst we’ve been on leave these last few weeks, I’ll never forget the most thunderous applause, and electric standing ovation from our first (and only) audience. The cast & creatives are ready to get back! We are ecstatic that we have the opportunity to continue the season, and we so look forward to having everyone in the theatre again.”

Despite some of the darkness of the story, Next to Normal ultimately offers us hope and light – two things we need more than ever at the moment!


Next to Normal will play a strictly limited season at Chapel off Chapel: 4 – 12 August. Tickets go on sale 10.00am – Saturdau 31 July 2021. For more information, visit: www.nexttonormal.com.au for details.

Image: Next to Normal – photo courtesy of James Terry Collective