‘Next to Normal’ Reimagined as Immersive, Live Event (EXCLUSIVE)

variety.com:

Brent Lang Executive Editor of Film and Media“Next to Normal,” the Tony Award and Pulitzer Prize winning 2009 musical, will be reimagined as a live immersive theatrical event.

The new version of the acclaimed production will have its world premiere at the Festival Grec de Barcelona this July.The show will be presented without sets or props in a 20,000 square-foot venue, utilizing a surround-sound system and 360-degree projections to create an immersive experience that places the audience alongside the actors.

It is directed by Simon Pittman and carries the blessing of its writers Tom Kitt and Brian Yorkey. Alice Ripley, who won a Tony for the original show, will reprise her performance who will be joined live by Andy Señor Jr., Jade Laurel, Eloi Gomez, and Lewis Edgar.

Tony Award nominee Adam Pascal will play Dr. Madden/Dr. Fine in a virtual format. “Tom and Brian’s beloved ‘Next to Normal’ in this new perspective will make a dramatically soulful impact on the human hearts presented. ‘Next to Normal’ exists to help us find the light,” said Ripley. “Tom and I couldn’t be more thrilled that the world will get to see ‘Next to Normal’ in this brand-new way.