Next to Normal

The best shows are sometimes found just off the theatre glitter strips in London and New York. Next to Normal is a case in point. Oscar Theatre Company (OTC) shares an ethos and philosophy with these ‘off-centre’ companies, so they usually select shows that established their early reputations there.

Hence OTC productions are more than light entertainment. They are usually provocative, challenging or controversial, with real-life characters.

Cremorne’s intimacy is ideal for this show about how one person’s mental illness can affect the whole family. Astute director Emily Gilhome chose her actors carefully for vocal and acting quality, all but one of whom have notched up enviable reputations with several theatre companies.

Alice Barbery (Diana, a mother with a not-uncommon mental fixation) anchors the plot and plays the full range of emotions, except when Diana is emotionally neutered by suppressants and various other medical treatments. Chris Kellet shines as Diana’s devoted and empathetic husband, Dan.

Siobhan Kranz steals our sympathies as the brilliant and talented (but almost overlooked) daughter, Natalie, who is ably supported by Tom Oliver as her persistent suitor, Henry.

James Gauci excels in his double role as Diana’s two doctors, while newcomer to the stage, Matt Crowley (Gabriel) creates the sort of boy any mother hopes her baby son would grow into.

This contemporary musical allegory is splendidly sung, played and acted. It will engage you, if you let it.

Jay McKee

Photographers: Misha Byrne and Nick Morrissey