Next to Normal

Directed by Michael Longhurst, Next to Normal makes its anticipated transfer to Wyndam’s Theatre in London's West End. A thrilling musical nominated for four Olivier Awards, including Best New Musical, Next to Normal returns after its original sold out run last year.

The Tony Award and Pulitzer Prize-winning masterpiece delves into the poignant story of a suburban family grappling with grief and navigates the challenges of a mother and wife diagnosed with bipolar disorder.

Featuring poignant lyrics by Brian Yorkey, this acclaimed production is now playing at the Wyndham’s Theatre for a strictly limited season. 

What is Next to Normal about? 

Mother and wife Diana Goodman tries to go on with her day-to-day life, while living with bipolar disorder and dealing with grief. Despite numerous treatments, haunting memories resurface, and her behaviour becomes dangerously unpredictable, unfolding into a turbulent whirlwind of addiction. 

Amid this turmoil, husband Daniel stands by her side, desperately trying to hold their family together for the sake of their daughter Natalie, who finds comfort in music and drugs.   

Next to Normal opened on Broadway in 2009, collecting nominations for 11 Tony Awards and winning three, including for its score composed by Tom Kitt. The show's rock and country-pop tunes lift the emotional journey of a grieving family, vividly capturing their struggles in ways that words alone cannot express.

The show premiered in the UK in 2023 at the Donmar Warehouse in London and was acclaimed by critics for its powerful storytelling and vocal performances. 

Next to Normal is celebrated for its groundbreaking approach to mental health issues on stage and its striking portrayal of bipolar disorder, psychiatric treatment and impact on family dynamics.

Next to Normal UK cast

The acclaimed cast from last year's UK premiere at the Donmar Warehouse returns to the West End this year.

Playing Diana Goodman is Caissie Levy, a renowned actress both on Broadway and in the West End, notably for her powerful vocals as Elsa in Frozen and Fantine in Les Misérables. Jamie Parker, known for his portrayal of Harry Potter in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, takes on the role of Dan Goodman.

Jack Wolfe joins the cast as the long-lost son Gabe – he has previously been seen in the Netflix hits Shadow and Bone and The Witcher. Eleanor Worthington-Cox, who earned an Olivier Award for her role in Matilda the Musical, portrays Natalie, the daughter coping with neglect amid her family's turmoil.

How to get tickets for Next to Normal 

You can book your tickets to see Next to Normal in London online with Visit London. Choose your seats using the seating plan and select the best time and date for you to attend the musical. The show is currently bookable until 21 September 2024.

Where is Next to Normal playing? 

Next to Normal is currently showing at Wyndham’s Theatre, on Charing Cross Road near Leicester Square.  

How to get there: 

• Tube – The closest Tube station is Leicester Square (Northern and Piccadilly lines). 
• Bus – Hop on a bus and stop at Cambridge Circus, which is a few minutes’ walk away from the theatre. Routes 24, 29, 176, N5, N29, N41 and N279.
• Cycling – Hire a Santander Cycles bike and head to Moor Street in Soho where you’ll find a docking station a few minutes’ walk away from the theatre. 

How long is the musical Next to Normal? 

The show is two hours and 25 minutes long and includes an interval.  

What time is the evening show? 

Next to Normal evening performances take place Mondays to Saturdays at 7.30pm.  

When are the matinee performances taking place? 

The matinees are scheduled on Thursdays and Saturdays at 2.30pm. 

What age is the show suitable for? 

Next to Normal is recommended for anyone aged 14 and over. All children under 16 must have a valid ticket and be accompanied by an adult.

Please note that the show contains adult themes, including a focus on mental health issues, grief and suicide. 

What other shows can I see in London? 

See Andrew Lloyd Webber’s masterpiece the Phantom of the Opera – one of the longest running shows in the West End currently showing at His Majesty’s Theatre. Or experience the immersive musical Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club, a groundbreaking show exploring Berlin 1930s underground scene on now at the Playhouse Theatre.