Next to Normal

Next to Normal is a phenomenal play about how terrifying life’s changes can be. It was a musical performance at Citystage, a historic place once owned and renovated by actor Dennis Hopper!
Citystage is a very old theater, you can tell by the hardwood chairs, stage, and the lights over the crowd looked art deco. It has lost none of its charm, but dress light, it gets very warm (especially for the actors)! The theater is NOT what keeps people coming to their shows, it is BY FAR the talent. The cast are as follows: Dan played by Bryan Putnam, Diane played by Katherine Vernon, Natalie played by Taylor Hamlet, Gabriel played by Max Korn, Henry played by Patrick Basquill, and Dr. Fine played by George Domby.
ALL players were very impressive. I know how hard it is to act and sing, but even more so when the building is uncomfortable. Katherine Vernon, the neurotic mother in this musical, has a strong soprano voice, but she pulled back nicely to harmonize with the other actors. Taylor Hamlet did really well in her role as Natalie, the rebellious daughter. She is only 16, a very young talent!
The props were not impressive, and some money could be invested to fix that. The talent more than makes up for the props, and they should be paid handsomely for the entertainment they provide. I plan on seeing more shows at Citystage because I was truly impressed with the talent and evidence of work that went into the production.