June 19, 2025
By Rachel Scofield

Rise Up Arts Alliance is debuting Next to Normal, a gripping and emotional musical that explores the often-unseen struggles of mental health and identity through the eyes of a suburban family. The production runs June 19–22 and promises to deliver a powerful, resonant experience.

Directed by Chris Hughes, Next to Normal is a Pulitzer Prize-winning musical that follows the Goodmans as they grapple with the effects of mental illness. At its center is Diana (Tonya Kramer), a suburban mother struggling with bipolar disorder, whose condition—and the treatment for it—deeply impacts her husband Dan (Matthew DeCarlo-Boyd), daughter Natalie (Fae Maffin), and their fragile family dynamic.

As secrets surface and the boundaries between reality and illusion blur, the musical explores grief, memory, and the pursuit of normalcy with raw honesty and emotional intensity.

“The play deals with real-life mental health issues, and how a lot of people are affected—not just the individuals who are diagnosed,” said DeCarlo-Boyd.

Next to Normal is rated PG-13 due to its heavy themes and mature language.

“It’s a mature show with a lot of dark matter, a lot of cursing,” DeCarlo-Boyd added.

The performance includes depictions of mental health disorders, drug use, self-harm, grief, and trauma.

“The show is really good, but we don’t want you to overwhelm yourself,” said Maffin. “Keep in mind what you are able to handle.”

Performances will take place on June 19, 20, and 21 at 7 p.m., with a Sunday matinee on June 22 at 4 p.m. A special 2 p.m. showing on June 21 will be followed by a discussion with experts from Fairfield County ADAMH (Alcohol, Drug Addiction, and Mental Health).

All shows will be held at the Crossroads Event Center (2095 W. Fair Ave.). Tickets are available online for $13 for adults, $11 for seniors and military members, and $8 for students.

Rounding out the cast are Leo Bennett as Gabe, Stuart Yaden as Henry, Julia Melick as Dr. Fine, and Kaya Crihfield as Dr. Madden.

“We’ve been putting our hearts into this show for the past four months,” said DeCarlo-Boyd. “It’s been a ride and it’s been tough, but it is a show that is so worth it in the end.”

Concessions will be offered for all performances and will include a “Coffee and Clarity” menu featuring hot or iced lattes, as well as biscotti (key lime is an option) and scones (vanilla or orange-cardamom).

Rise Up’s next production will be Disney’s The Lion King Jr., running July 18–20. This performance is part of the Penguin Project, which encourages children with special needs to participate in the performing arts. In August, Rise Up will present William Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. While most performance dates and locations are yet to be announced, there will be a free performance on Saturday, August 9 at 10 a.m. in Pickerington’s Victory Park as part of Wizard Faire.

For more information, visit riseupartsalliance.org or follow @RiseUpArtsAlliance on social media.