Belmont University Research Symposium (BURS)
Publication Date
2022
College
Visual and Performing Arts, College of
Department
Theatre and Dance, Department of
BURS Faculty Advisor
Carla Lahey
Presentation Type
Oral Presentation
Abstract
Next To Normal, the Broadway musical by Tom Kitt and Brian Yorkey, follows a dysfunctional family whose matriarch struggles with a multitude of mental health issues. Delving into hard topics, such as mental health and family relationships, the musical challenges what we consider to be normal family dynamics and mental states. These important themes are mainly demonstrated through Diana, a mother and wife who struggles with severe mental health diagnosis. Through this analysis, these difficult questions are unveiled while looking closely at the musical’s plot structure, characters, ideas, and dialogue.
Recommended Citation
Campbell, Caitlyn, "What is Normal in Mental Health?: A Script Analysis of Next to Normal" (2022). Belmont University Research Symposium (BURS). 34.
https://repository.belmont.edu/burs/34
Included in
Dramatic Literature, Criticism and Theory Commons, Other Theatre and Performance Studies Commons
