NEXT TO NORMAL
Book & Lyrics by BRIAN YORKEY
Music by TOM KITT
Paradox Opera’s most recent production was a widely-acclaimed run of the Pulitzer Prize–winning rock musical Next to Normal! This powerful, award-winning story explores family, love, and mental health through one of the most groundbreaking scores in modern musical theatre. It’s raw, emotional, and full of heart — exactly the kind of daring, human storytelling that defines Paradox Opera.
Production photos coming soon!
April 17-19, 2026 @ The Fruit (Durham, NC)
PRODUCTION TEAM
Eric Love
Director
Alex Thompson
Music Director
CAST
Kelley Keats
DIANA
Bradley McBride
DAN
Alissa Roca
NATALIE
Dylan Elza
GABE
Gwen Hyland
HENRY
Christopher Fotis
DR. MADDEN
Why Next to Normal?
At Paradox Opera, we’re passionate about stories that connect deeply — that blur the lines between opera and musical theatre, between classical artistry and contemporary relevance.
Next to Normal is a show that does exactly that. It asks hard questions about love, loss, and identity — and does so through music that’s as intimate as it is explosive.
We believe this work belongs in the same conversation as the operas we love: it’s emotionally charged, vocally thrilling, and profoundly human.
“Next to Normal changed my life when I saw it on Broadway in 2009. I was 17, and it's been my dream to be part of a production of this incredible show ever since. I cannot wait to bring my vision of this to you all, and to share in it on the stage as well as behind the scenes!”
— Alissa Roca, Executive Artistic Director
What’s Next
We’ll have more to share soon, including ticket info and exclusive behind-the-scenes content!
This production represents a huge leap forward for Paradox Opera, and we can’t do it without you.
We’re raising $30,000 to bring Next to Normal to life, and ticket sales may only cover about half that cost.
Every dollar you donate helps us:
Pay our artists a fair living wage
Hire our creative and production teams
Cover venue, set, and costume costs
Keep our performances accessible to all
If you believe in bold, emotional, community-driven art — this is your moment to help make it happen.
Keep up-to-date!
Casting Auditions
Tickets
Behind-the-scenes sneak peeks