NEXT TO NORMAL
APRIL 17-19, 2026
@ The Fruit in Durham, NC
Paradox Opera is thrilled to announce our next fully staged production — the Pulitzer Prize–winning rock musical Next to Normal, coming to The Fruit in Durham, April 17–19, 2026.
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.
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 much more to share soon — casting announcements, creative team, 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