Interview with Brian Yorkey – Writer and Lyricist of Next to Normal

A couple of weeks ago I reported that the musical Next to Normal opened on Broadway at the Booth Theatre. This musical is a poignant portrayal of a mother careworn, struggling with bipolar disorder and her family’s attempt to cope and to help. Next to Normal is emotional and moving. It accurately touches the heart of what makes bipolar disorder such a devastating illness. And it has now received 11 Tony Award Nominations including Best Musical.

Brian Yorkey is the writer and lyricist for the text and songs of Next to Normal. I had the opportunity to ask Mr. Yorkey a few questions about this production.

In discussing this musical with members of our community, by far and away the number one question asked by everyone was regarding the inspiration for the musical. So I asked Mr. Yorkey if there is someone in his life or that of Tom Kitt, composer and co-orchestrator, who struggles with bipolar disorder. He shared how the musical grew and evolved from a workshop assignment to a Broadway sensation. Read more of Brian Yorkey’s insight into Next to Normal.
~Kimberly