Exceptional Performances Light the Darkness of Mental Illness in NEXT TO NORMAL at Waukesha Civic Theatre

Some rare musicals pull at your heart strings from the overture until the curtain call, and Tom Kitt and Brian Yorkey’s powerful rock musical, “Next to Normal,” is one of them. Jenn Dobby thoughtful and intricate direction of Waukesha Civic Theatre’s production opens its exploration of the complexities of mental illness, family dynamics, and the pursuit of normalcy, with a wallop. The upbeat, almost jaunty “Just Another Day” introduces us to the Goodmans, “the perfect, loving family,” grappling with decidedly not-so-normal issues. The traumas of grief and the indignity of bipolar disorder are laid bare throughout this powerful show, but by the end of the first number, we’re so enthralled by the musical’s rocking sound and tongue-in-cheek lyrics, we don’t see the turmoil bubbling so very close to the surface.

This powerful musical is anchored by a truly powerhouse cast, shouldered measure for measure by Taylor Miñan and Nicholas Callan Haubner as the fractured married couple. Ms. Miñan is remarkable as Diana, her supple soprano swinging perilously low and effervescently high, brilliantly capturing the complex highs and lows of Diana’s disorder. It’s a complicated role that demands both vulnerability and intensity and Ms. Miñan navigated it with grace, delivering a raw and powerful portrayal of a woman lost in her own mind, torn between the love for her family and her struggle with mental illness. The musical’s iconic ballads, like “I Miss the Mountains” and “You Don’t Know,” showcase a remarkable range that brought depth to the character.

As Dan Goodman, Diana’s husband, Nicholas Callan Haubner compliments Ms. Miñan with a breathtaking portrayal of a man and husband breaking down from the moment we see him set foot into the story. Mr. Haubner deftly underlines Dan’s character with a complicated brand of frustrated empathy, as he attempts to maintain constant composure and control. His powerful voice soars in numbers like “I Am the One,” only to be colored with a depth of sadness that hits especially hard in songs like “I’ve Been.” The nuanced dynamics of Mr. Haubner’s performance, brilliantly brings Dan’s internal conflicts to bear. The chemistry between Ms. Miñan and Mr. Haubner is palpable, allowing you to root for their success and weep for their traumas.

The supporting characters were equally strong, each compelling and beautifully performed. Michael Decker as Gabe, the Goodman son, delivered a hauntingly tender performance, his ghostly presence throughout the production added layers of tension, and his songs, particularly “I’m Alive,” were filled with a potent combination of charm and menace. Meanwhile, Elena Behnke as the dysfunctional and neglected Natalie, almost steals the show with her heart and humor, offering the necessary counterbalance to the intense emotions of the Goodman family. Ms. Behnke’s performance was especially radiant, showcasing her gorgeous soprano voice. Rounding out the six-person ensemble, Daniel Bingham brings a quiet, lovable energy to the role of Henry, the “stoner philosopher” who is in love with Natalie. Justin Spanbauer navigates the role of Dr. Madden with a panache and Axel Rose-esque flair, providing the few, but well-deserved laughs of the production.

Musically, the show was expertly delivered, despite the occasional challenges of the venue. The set, while cleverly economical in its use of the space, left something to be desired in its use of visuals projected on its façade. While the conceit is full of potential for enhancing the narrative, as the set is transformed into an electronic blueprint during “Wish I Were Here,” its use elsewhere is decidedly less sophisticated. Instead of enhancing the narrative, the on-the-nose visuals often come in an expected barrage, adding little value, and taking focus from the genuine talent on the stage.

Overall, Waukesha Civic Theatre’s production of “Next to Normal” was a striking and emotionally resonant experience. The outstanding ensemble gave inspired performances, poignantly bringing to life the difficult exploration of mental illness, family, and the complexities of what it means to be “normal.” The result resonated deeply with a grateful audience— we couldn’t help but give it a standing ovation.