NEXT TO NORMAL – Cast Announcement

After an extensive audition process of over 250 performers, James Terry Collective is thrilled to announce the full cast of Next to Normal.

Previously announced, this electric production will star Queenie van de Zandt in the leading role of DianaGoodman, the matriarch of a modern-day family, traumatised by loss and the unpredictable affects sparkedby her bipolar diagnosis. One of Australia’s most exciting stars of the stage, Queenie’s credits include KingKong (Global Creatures), Thoroughly Modern Millie (The Production Company), and Into The Woods(Victorian Opera).

Returning to the stage is Tyran Parke as Dan Goodman. After two decades gracing Australia’s stages in
productions such as Sunday in the Park with George, Tick, Tick…Boom! and Anything Goes, Tyran more
recently turned his attention to directing, with credits including Barnum The Musical, starring Todd
McKenny, and the national tour of Chess, starring Natalie Bassingthwaighte. Tyran is also Head of the
Victorian College of the Arts (VCA) Musical Theatre Program.

Making their professional debuts are newcomers Sam Richardson (VCA) as Gabriel ‘Gabe’ Goodman,
Melanie Bird (Showfit) as Natalie Goodman, and Liam Wigney (WAAPA) as Henry. Completing the cast asDr Madden/Dr Fine is the incredibly talented Ross Chisari (Shrek the Musical, We Will Rock You, Ghost the Musical).

Producer James Terry said:

We are excited to showcase some fresh faces and springboard both emergingand established Australian performers back onto the stage after what’s been a difficult year for the Arts.During the casting process, our production team was spoilt for choice which was a great problem to have.However, the outstanding vocal standard and deep connection of this cast to the characters is what reallystood out for us. We cannot wait to see them bring this ‘electric’ score to life.

Next to Normal with music by Tom Kitt, and Book & Lyrics by Brian Yorkey, is a powerful rock musical that grapples with the effects of trauma and mental illness. It was nominated for 11 Tony Awards, winning Best Original Score and Best Orchestration, followed by the Pulitzer Prize for Drama. This production will be directed by Mark Taylor (RENT, Bright Star) Choreographed by Freya List (RENT,Chess), and Musical Direction by Nathan Firmin (Bright Star, Memphis).

Director Mark Taylor, said:

While Next to Normal had its Broadway debut in 2009, its themes of mental
health and our need for connection are just as relevant in 2021. Despite some of the darkness of the story, this musical ultimately offers us hope and light – two things we need more than ever at the moment.

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Session Detail

Venue: Chapel off Chapel, Prahran
Date: July 15 – July 25
Price: From $59 (+booking and handling fees)
Bookings: click on HERE