Elizabeth Stanley, A.J. Shively, Gabi Carrubba, More Cast in Connecticut Next to Normal Concerts

Kate Simone will direct the Pulitzer Prize-winning musical for Connecticut Stage Company.

April 15, 2026 By Andrew Gans

Connecticut Stage Company's third season will continue with concerts of the Pulitzer Prize-winning musical Next to Normal May 2 at 7 PM and May 3 at 2 PM at the New Canaan Library in New Canaan, Connecticut.

Directed by Kate Simone, the concerts will feature Tony nominees Elizabeth Stanley (Jagged Little Pill, On the Town) as Diana and A.J. Shively (Paradise Square, Bright Star) as Dan plus Gabi Carrubba (Bat Boy, Just in Time) as Natalie, Gianni Palmarini as Gabe, Ethan Riordan (Parade national tour) as Henry, and Eric Chambliss (Fiddler on the Roof, Jersey Boys) as Dr. Madden/Dr. Fine.

The performances will also have music direction by Mason Frasher and choreography by Chris McNiff.

The exploration of a suburban family struggling with the effects of mental illness has a book and lyrics by Brian Yorkey and music by Tom Kitt. The original production won three 2009 Tony Awards, including Best Original Score for the pair. The musical subsequently won the 2010 Pulitzer Prize for Drama.

The West End transfer of the Donmar Warehouse's 2023 Olivier-nominated staging of Next to Normal—which officially opened June 26, 2024, at the Wyndham's Theatre—was broadcast on PBS starring Ragtime's Caissie Levy.

The upcoming concerts are produced by Lorah Haskins in partnership with New Canaan Library. A portion of ticket sales will benefit the library.

“Our audiences will connect with this musical in powerful and impactful ways, as they see themselves reflected in these characters and relationships. We are looking forward to sharing this poignant story and gripping music, augmented by several local organizations to bring support for those during Mental Health Awareness Month,” said Haskins in a statement.

Visit ConnecticutStageCompany.org.