Kentwood Players announces open auditions for Next to Normal, Music by Tom Kitt, Book and Lyrics by Brian Yorkey.
In person auditions will be held:
- Saturday, March 14th 10:00 am to 2:00 pm
- Sunday, March 15th 6:00 to 10:00 pm
- Callbacks (by invitation only) Monday, March 16th at 7:00 pm
This non-equity production is directed by Kirk Larson with musical direction by Catherine Rahm, and produced by Margaret Harrington, Daniel Kruger and Richard Santilena.
Performance dates are Friday, May 8 through Saturday, June 6, 2026. Friday and Saturday evening performances are at 8:00 pm, and Sunday matinees at 2:00 pm. Saturday matinees, also at 2:00 pm, will be added May 16 and continue through the end of the run. There will be no performances over Memorial Day weekend, May 22-24.
This is a non-union, non-paid theater production. Next to Normal is presented by special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Next to Normal is a powerful, contemporary rock musical by Brian Yorkey (book and lyrics) and Tom Kitt (music) that explores a suburban family's struggle with the impact of mental illness. Balancing raw emotion with moments of humor and hope, it follows Diana, a mother battling bipolar disorder, and the ripple affects her condition has on her husband, children, and their relationships.
Note: This show deals with difficult emotional content and contains strong language.
AUDITION PROCESS
Kentwood Players is committed to fostering an inclusive environment, and encourages actors of all racial and ethnic backgrounds, abilities and identities to audition.
We are holding in-person auditions; no appointments are necessary. Auditioners should prepare to perform 32 bars of a song from a contemporary musical, preferably this show (Next to Normal). Bring sheet music in the correct key; an accompanist will be provided.
Please arrive in time to sign in and complete the paperwork during scheduled audition times. Bring a printed current headshot, 1-page resume, and your calendar. A Rehearsal Schedule will be posted, and you will be asked to note any potential conflicts.
CHARACTER BREAKDOWN
Diana Goodman - Female presenting, 30's-40's: Mother. Suffers from delusional bipolar disorder, emotionally intense. Dramatic actor-singer; powerful contemporary belt and legitimate singing ability. (vocal range G3 - F#5)
Dan Goodman - Male presenting, 30's-40's: Father. Strong and steady presence. Rock/pop vocal quality. (Ab2 - B4)
Gabe - Male presenting, late teens: Son. Charismatic, flexible vocalist; should be comfortable with a contemporary/rock sound. (B2 - C5)
Natalie - Female presenting, mid- to late-teens: Daughter. Bright and present; talented pianist and a perfectionist. Strong belt/pop voice (G3 - G5)
Henry - Male presenting, mid- to late-teens: Natalie's boyfriend. Musician, philosopher, and slacker. Solid acting chops; (G#2 - B4)
Dr. Madden / Dr. Fine - Male or Female presenting, 30's-50's: Double role; Diana's psychiatrist and a psychopharmacologist. Character actor with clear vocal line. (A2 - A4)
Please direct any questions about the show, the auditions process or Kentwood Players to nexttonormal@kentwoodplayers.org.
Notice
Those auditioning can take the Metro K Line to Kentwood to the Westchester/Veterans stop, just a short one block walk from the Westchester Playhouse. Those who drive, please note the small lot next to the Westchester Playhouse, street parking on 83rd Street and in the adjoining neighborhood. Do not park on our block of Hindry or in the RYDER parking spaces (on 83rd across Hindry from the theater) as cars parked there will be towed away. Please read all traffic and parking signs carefully.
Kentwood Players holds auditions for its main stage shows 6 times a year.