After 15 years, ‘Next to Normal’ has finally made its way from Broadway to the West End, yet its poignant insights into mental health and its treatment remain as relevant as ever.

Written by Tom Kitt (music) and Brian Yorkey (book and lyrics), ‘Next to Normal’ garnered the Pulitzer Prize for Drama and three Tony Awards. This year, it has earned four Olivier nominations, bolstered by its heart-wrenching narrative centered around Diana Goodman, portrayed superbly by Caissie Levy, a role she originated at the Donmar Warehouse in 2023.

Levy leads an exceptional ensemble cast who reprise their roles, showcasing their deepened connection under the direction of Michael Longhurst. The familial bonds they portray are crucial as they navigate the weighty themes of mental illness. From the opening scenes depicting Diana’s escalating mania to poignant moments of family unity and struggle, the cast delivers performances that resonate deeply.

Musicals often serve as platforms for tackling profound subjects, and ‘Next to Normal’ is no exception. Like ‘Rent’ and ‘Dear Evan Hansen’, it delves into complex issues—here, exploring bipolar disorder with sensitivity and depth, resisting the temptation of easy resolutions.

The production balances its weighty themes with moments of levity, such as Diana’s pill-filled maracas and whimsical depictions of her psychiatrist as a rock star. These touches add dimension to the narrative without undermining its gravity.

Central to the musical’s impact is its score, which allows the cast to showcase their vocal prowess in numerous sung-through moments. Levy dazzles with her rendition of “I Miss the Mountains,” conveying Diana’s longing for emotional clarity amidst medication’s numbing effects, while Jack Wolfe captivates with the rock ballad “I’m Alive.”

The dynamics between characters, particularly Diana and her son Gabe, are deeply compelling. Equally poignant are the evolving relationships, like Natalie and her boyfriend Henry, portrayed with tenderness reminiscent of Diana and Dan’s youthful love.

While some subplots could benefit from more development, such as Natalie’s struggles with medication and her musical ambitions, the production’s move to Wyndham’s Theatre preserves intimacy despite its larger scale.

In essence, ‘Next to Normal’ thrives in the hands of its talented, cohesive cast, reaffirming its status as a powerful exploration of mental health.

Book ‘Next to Normal’ tickets on London Theatre.