BWW Reviews: NEXT TO NORMAL at Town Hall Arts Center

When you see a show at Town Hall Arts Center, you expect to be immersed in the production with such an intimate space. For a show with the emotional depth of Next to Normal, you're reminded just how necessary that can be.

The musical, the 2010 Pulitzer Prize winner for drama, follows the struggle of Diana Goodman and her suburban family, constantly coping with her increasing bipolar disorder. It also touches on the subjects of suicide, loss, drugs and psychotherapy.

Next to Normal plays like a good indie movie. The family drama is raw, real and relatable. The style is both simplistic and edgy. The rock score is easily one of the best of the last decade, with an electrifying band led by Donna Debreceni.

The cast is headed by Margie Lamb, taking her third turn at Diana (for good reason). Lamb's Diana is everything the role should be-she's witty and doesn't take herself too seriously. You want to her win her battle, and her intentions are palpable. If she comes back to do this role every few years, I doubt most of Denver would complain. (However, I'd love to see what a few other area actresses could bring.)

Daniel Langhoff plays her husband, Dan, with a subtle conviction. He's not too overbearing, almost numb to the lifestyle he's been forced to play out for years. Jacquie Jo Billings is their fiery daughter Natalie, who actively searches for outlets to escape her family drama. Her performance and vocals are captivating. Their son, Gabe, is played by Josh Bess, who gives the role a spark, riding the fine line between Diana's angel and demon.

Rounding out the cast is Natalie's stoner boyfriend, Henry, who's given a sensitive, supportive and undeniably likeable demeanor by Ethan Knowles. Jared Ming plays Drs. Madden and Fine with a suave and sexy charm.

The lighting design by Seth Alison is some of the best I've experienced at Town Hall. It pulsates along with the characters' emotions, adding neon to their veins.

The set design by Tina Anderson fits perfectly in the space. (I always love seeing where the band will live.) You're basically at the Goodmans' dinner table. In a space as shallow as Town Hall, it's great to see a set playing with levels, and it incorporates the intricate lighting design beautifully.

From what I've seen of Director Nick Sugar's work, much of this show is reminiscent of the Broadway production, which works in the show's favor. There's an unmatched energy in the color scheme of magnetic purple and blue with touches of red. Sometimes certain characters match at specific times. Sugar's knack for capturing a production's original flavor and adding his own unique sprinkles always makes his shows a treat.

Next to Normal plays now through March 15. Thursday, Friday and Saturday shows are at 7:30 p.m. with Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets are available at townhallartscenter.org or by calling (303)794-2787, ext 5. There is a $2 handling charge per ticket for tickets ordered online. There is no handling charge for ordering tickets by phone or in person. Online purchases can be made until 24 hours before showtime. Ticket purchases within 24 hours of showtime must be made in person at the box office or by phone.

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