Next to Normal has a Tony Award-winning score by Tom Kitt (music) and Brian Yorkey (book and lyrics). The nearly sung-through rock musical examines a woman struggling with bipolar disorder and depression as her family hangs in the balance.
David Ira Goldstein stages the production that will play Tucson through Oct. 6, followed by a Phoenix run Oct. 11-28. Next to Normal will then play San Jose Repertory Theatre Jan. 10-Feb. 3, 2013. Christopher McGovern serves as musical director/accompanist.
Kassebaum (Wicked, Rent), who was most recently seen in the Broadway production of Leap of Faith, portrays Diana, opposite Cassidy (Catch Me If You Can, 1776) as her husband Dan.
The cast also features Jonathan Shew (Voca People) as Gabe, Andrea Ross (Whistle Down the Wind) as Natalie, A.J. Holmes (Young Frankenstein tour) as Henry and Mark Farrell (Loaded) as Dr. Madden/Dr. Fine.
Next to Normal has scenic design by John Ezell, costume design by Kish Finnegan, lighting and projection design by David Lee Cuthbert and sound design by Abe Jacobs.
Tucson performances take place at the Temple of Music and Art (330 S. Scott Avenue); call the box office at (520) 622-2823. Phoenix performances take place at the Herberger Theater Center (222 E. Monroe Street); call the box office at (602) 256-6995.
Visit www.arizonatheatre.org for more information.