Next to Normal
A Performing Arts academic staff member practises what she preaches.
Hidden in Christchurch’s suburb of Addington is New Zealand’s largest theatre company, the Court Theatre. In its post-earthquake refuge - an old grain shed – is a magical world of happiness, laughter, drama and intrigue. A diverse and dynamic company of 60 permanent staff plus hundreds of artists and artisans produce 19 productions each year.
One of their 2023 productions is Next To Normal, a multi-award-winning rock musical that will have you asking yourself what ‘normal’ actually looks like. The story centres on a mother who struggles with worsening bipolar disorder and the effects that managing her illness has on her family. On the surface they are the perfect loving family, but underneath it all, they are struggling to navigate their way through life. Despite all the doctors, Diana’s mental health is worsening. Dan’s biggest concern is helping his wife to return to ‘normal’, whilst Natalie just wants to finish high school unscathed.
Juliet Reynolds-Midgley, who plays the lead role of Diana in Next to Normal, is a seasoned actor and singer who balances an active performing career alongside her teaching at Ara | Te Pūkenga on the Bachelor of Performing Arts programme. She is passionate about teaching and seeing new work and new artists flourish. Reviewer Lindsay Clark of The Press had this to say:
"At the centre of developments, Juliet Reynolds-Midgley as Diana is terrific. She has total control of the demanding role, bringing gut-wrenching credibility to this woman whose frailty and courage shapes the story with neither sentimentality nor overstatement."