Next To Normal London reviews

Reviews have dropped for the premiere UK production of Next To Normal in London – what did the critics make of it?

Tom Kitt and Brian Yorkey’s Pulitzer Prize winning piece first debuted Off-Broadway in 2008 before transferring to Broadway in 2009.

Some 15 years later, it finally makes its long-awaited UK debut in a production at the Donmar Warehouse helmed by The venue’s Artistic Director Michael Longhurst

Making up the cast are Caissie Levy, Trevor Dion Nicholas, Jack Ofrecio, Jamie Parker, Jack Wolfe and Eleanor Worthington-Cox.

Next To Normal London reviews

London Evening Standard – 4/5
“I expected everyone to hug and learn at the end, like they do in sitcoms. Actually the creators opt for something much more bittersweet and interesting, which lifted my appreciation of the whole show. Caissie Levy – who originated the role of Elsa in Frozen on Broadway – is terrific in it, and she has a fine supporting cast. ” – Read the full review

The Guardian – 3/5
“Donmar’s revival of this 2010 Pulitzer prize-winning musical feels, at times, somewhat overwhelming. The songs and emotions come at you in a barrage, their multiplicity of genres underlining the confused and sometimes heightened reality in which the protagonist lives.” – Read the full review

The Stage – 3/5
“Directed by Michael Longhurst, this long-expected UK premiere handles the musical’s heavy content with a lightness of touch that sometimes makes the show feel entirely sanitised.” – Read the full review

BroadwayWorld – 5/5
“It’s a touching, life-size picture of a family who can’t seem to overcome their pain. Too many productions are haphazardly labelled as “a must-see” these days, but this is the real deal.” – Read the full review

WhatsOnStage- 4/5
“Michael Longhurst – who revealed himself as a brilliant director of the challenging, complex musical with Caroline, or Change – has produced an absolutely superb production with a cast who are pitch perfect dramatically as well as vocally. They make it impossible not to feel wrought and moved by the close.” – Read the full review

Time Out – 3/5
“This UK debut for Tom Kitt and Brian Yorkey’s Pulitzer winner has been a long time coming. And outgoing Donmar Warehouse boss Michael Longhurst matches the pent-up demand with a sensational production – even if I’m doubtful whether the musical itself lives up to the hype.” – Read the full review

Next To Normal plays Donmar Warehouse, London currently booking through to 7 October 2023.

Book Next To Normal London tickets here »