Audition Notice for Next to Normal
Director: Ryan Starczewski
Music Director: Joe Perry
Choreographer/Assistant Director: Rebecca Futty
Set Designer: Josh Starczewski
Prop Masters and Stage Managers: John and Chris Buck
Producer: Amanda Burr
Tech Manager: Ben Goldstone
Auditions for Next to Normal will be held at Facetime Theatre on Sunday, Dec. 29th at 6:30 pm and Monday, Dec. 30th at 6:30 pm. Callbacks will be held on Thursday, Jan 2nd at 6:30 pm.
We are seeking excellent singers/actors ages 16+. As discussed further below, in the character descriptions, we are open to all genders for certain roles.
Show dates: March 7th, 8th, 14th, 15th, 21st, 22nd at 7:30pm, March 9th, 16th at 3:00pm
Read through/First Rehearsal will be held on Sunday, January 5th at Facetime Theatre.
Rehearsals will generally be held on Sundays (evenings), Mondays (evenings) and Thursdays (evenings). You will not be called to every rehearsal.
Tech week will be March 1st-6th (with one night off).
Please prepare 32 bars from an appropriate musical that best demonstrates your vocal abilities. Please bring sheet music for the accompanist. You may be asked to sing scales so that the Musical Director can confirm your vocal range.
If you are called back for Diana, please be familiar with the songs “I Miss The Mountains” and “You Don’t Know”.
If you are called back for Gabe, please be familiar with the song “I’m Alive”.
If you are called back for Dan, please be familiar with the song “I’ve Been”.
If you are called back for Natalie, please be familiar with the song “Superboy and the Invisible Girl”.
If you are called back for Dr. Madden, please be familiar with the song “Better Than Before”.
Character Descriptions and a brief synopsis have been provided below the audition notice.
To sign up for an audition time slot, or if you have any questions, please email Katie McGrier at auditions.facetime@gmail.com with your resume, headshot or photo, and your preferred audition date. If you are interested in auditioning but unable to make one of the initial audition dates, please email Katie to see if something else can be arranged.
Facetime Theatre (in the Franklin Commons)
400 Franklin Avenue
Suite 109
Phoenixville, PA 19460
Synopsis:
Next to Normal is a powerful and moving musical that explores the complexities of mental illness and its impact on a family. The story centers around Diana Goodman, a mother struggling with bipolar disorder, and the effects her illness has on her husband, Dan, and their two children, Natalie and Gabe.
The musical delves into the challenges Diana faces as she tries to manage her condition, including the side effects of medication and the emotional toll it takes on her loved ones. Her family members also grapple with their own struggles, such as Natalie’s rebellious behavior and Gabe’s troubled relationship with his mother.
Throughout the show, the characters confront difficult themes like grief, loss, and the blurred lines between reality and fantasy. The musical’s raw and honest portrayal of mental illness has resonated with audiences and critics alike, making it a thought-provoking and impactful theatrical experience.
Character Descriptions (All Roles are Non-Union, Unpaid) (Please note age ranges listed are approximations; we may cast younger or older depending on auditions)
Ages listed are not binding, the actor merely needs to be able to appear to be within that age bracket.
Diana Goodman: A suburban mother who suffers from bipolar disorder. She is sharp, intelligent, and passionate, but her mental illness often leads to delusions and hallucinations. (Age: 38-52)
Dan Goodman: Diana’s devoted husband, a patient and understanding man who tries his best to support his family despite the challenges. (Age: 38-52)
Gabe Goodman: The Goodman’s oldest son, who is the focal point of Diana’s grief and unresolved trauma. (Age: 18)
Natalie Goodman: The couple’s intelligent and musically talented teenage daughter, navigating the complexities of adolescence while dealing with her mother’s illness and her own emotional struggles. (Age: 16)
Dr. Madden: Diana’s psychiatrist, a somewhat distant and clinical figure who tries to help Diana manage her condition. (Age: 30-60)
Henry: Natalie’s love interest, a sensitive and understanding young man who provides support and comfort to Natalie. (Age: 16-18)