Columbus Children's Theatre tackles mental illness in next production
Despite its name, Columbus Children's Theatre doesn't just cater to the younger set.
In its latest production, "Next to Normal," CCT diverges from traditional children's programming and instead, dives deep into the complexities of mental illness and its impact on one American family.
In keeping with CCT's commitment to tackling important, real-world issues, the Pulitzer Prize-winning work is part of its Professional Series. The series features local professionals, primarily adults, on stage with some of CCT's advanced student performers.
The show opens Friday and runs through Nov. 10 at Studio One in the Riffe Center, with additional performances at Weathervane Playhouse . It is recommended for ages 13 and older.
Set to a pop-rock score, "Next to Normal" not only showcases the performers' vocal prowess, but also their talents at conveying complex dramatic material.
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Mounting this production also serves to challenge stigmas and spark conversations about mental health, according to Zac DelMonte, CCT's artistic director.
Performances at the Riffe Center will be at 7 p.m. Friday-Saturday; Oct. 31; Nov. 1-2; and Nov. 7-9, and at 2 p.m. Saturday; Oct. 27; Nov. 2-3; and Nov. 9. An additional show will be at 10 a.m. Nov. 1.
ASL interpreting and audio description will take place during the Nov. 2 show.
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The play also will be presented at 7 p.m. Nov. 14-16 and 2 p.m. Nov. 16 at Weathervane Playhouse, 100 Price Road, Newark.
Tickets are $44.56 general admission and $38.51 for students and seniors, available at cbusarts.com .
CCT will wrap up its 2024-25 season with "Titanic the Musical" in May.
This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Columbus Children's Theatre's 'Next to Normal' addresses mental illness
