Sanpete Theater Company is inviting audiences to experience something a little different from traditional community theater with its upcoming production of Next to Normal, an award-winning musical that explores mental illness, grief, family relationships and the complicated path toward healing.

For Sanpete Theater Company, the production represents more than another show. It marks the beginning of a new chapter for the organization as it expands beyond its youth theater programs to create opportunities for performers of all ages.

The company has become known for giving young performers opportunities to learn and perform through its youth theater camps. With Next to Normal, STC is opening that door wider, bringing together talented members of the Sanpete community to collaborate on a challenging and deeply human story.

At the center of Next to Normal is a family struggling to navigate loss, love, mental illness and the search for healing. Rather than presenting a simple story with an easy resolution, the musical takes audiences into the complexities of experiences that many people and families face, often privately.

Its message is ultimately one of compassion: there is no single definition of what it means to be “normal.” Sometimes, life is about finding a way to live next to normal while continuing to move forward.

Local Talent Takes the Stage

The production features an all-local cast, bringing together six performers for this collaborative community production.

Kael Nipko plays Gabe, with Chase Summers as Dan and Hayley Rowley as Diana. Danica Diaz plays Natalie, Jackson Hanks portrays Henry, and Fern Thomas takes on the roles of Dr. Madden and Dr. Fine.

The musical features music by Tom Kitt and book and lyrics by Brian Yorkey. Soibi Ross serves as director.

For Sanpete Theater Company, the opportunity to bring these performers together is an important part of the production’s purpose. Community theater can provide a place for people with different experiences and backgrounds to work together, develop their talents and tell stories that have the power to connect with an audience.

Next to Normal isn’t necessarily the typical feel-good musical. Instead, it offers audiences an honest and emotional look at the struggles that can exist behind closed doors–and the hope that can come from facing those struggles together.

For those who have experienced mental illness or loss themselves, have supported someone they love through difficult circumstances, or simply appreciate meaningful storytelling, the production offers an opportunity to see familiar challenges from another perspective.

Through heartbreak, hope and healing, Next to Normal asks audiences to consider what compassion can look like when life doesn’t fit neatly into a happy ending.

The production is recommended for mature audiences and is rated PG-13 because of mature themes and emotional subject matter.

Sanpete Theater Company hopes audiences will leave not only moved by the story, but with a greater understanding of the struggles others may be carrying silently.

With Next to Normal, the company is taking an important step toward its broader vision: creating theater opportunities for the entire community while bringing powerful stories to audiences throughout Sanpete County.

Performance Information

Next to Normal will be performed at Eva Beal Auditorium, 50 S. Main Street in Manti, on September 14, 15, 17, 18 and 19 at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets are $12 general admission.

For an evening of powerful music, exceptional local talent and a story that encourages compassion and understanding, Sanpete Theater Company invites the community to come experience Next to Normal.

Sometimes “normal” isn’t a destination. Sometimes it’s simply the place next to where we are.