Sarah Litzsinger, Tony Winner Jarrod Emick, Tim Young Are Next to Normal in Milwaukee

By Andrew Gans
07 Dec 2011

Sarah Litzsinger
Sarah Litzsinger

Beauty and the Beast's Sarah Litzsinger stars as Diana, a mother battling depression and bipolar disorder, in the Milwaukee Repertory Theater's production of the Pulitzer Prize-winning musical Next to Normal, which is currently in previews prior to an official opening Dec. 9 in The Rep’s Quadracci Powerhouse.

Directed by Mark Clements, the cast also features Tony winner Jarrod Emick (Dr. Madden/Dr. Fine), Danny Henning (Henry), Laurie Veldheer (Natalie), Kevin Vortmann (Dan) and Tim Young (Gabe).

The Pulitzer Prize-winning Next to Normal features music by Tom Kitt and book and lyrics by Brian Yorkey.

Next to Normal, according to production notes, "explores how one suburban family copes with crisis. With powerful lyrics and an electrifying pop-rock score of more than 30 songs, this intense, emotional and ultimately hopeful musical aims right for the heart with its story of a family coming to terms with its past and bravely facing its future."

The musicians for this production include Ethan Bender (bass); Scott Cook (cello); Bob Monagle (guitar); Patrick Morrow (percussion); Pamela Simmons (violin); and Timothy Splain (conductor/keyboards).

The creative team also includes Dan Kazemi (musical director), Michael Pink (additional musical staging), Todd Edward Ivins (scenic designer),  Alex Tecoma  (costume designer), Jeff Nellis (lighting designer), Nick Kourtides (sound designer), Stephanie Klapper (New York casting director),  Laura F. Wendt (stage manager), Rebecca Lindsey (assistant stage manager)  and Joshua Baggett (assistant director).

Performances continue through Jan. 15, 2012.

For ticket information visit www.MilwaukeeRep.com.