Paradox Opera is thrilled to announce our next fully staged production — the Pulitzer Prize–winning rock musical Next to Normal, coming to The Fruit in Durham, April 17–19, 2026. Directed by local (and national) legends Eric Love and Alex Thompson, with a powerhouse cast including Kelley Keats, Bradley McBride, Alissa Roca, Dylan Elza, Gwen Hyland, and Chris Fotis.

This powerful, award-winning story explores family, love, and mental health through one of the most groundbreaking scores in modern musical theatre. It’s raw, emotional, and full of heart — exactly the kind of daring, human storytelling that defines Paradox Opera.

Why Next to Normal?

At Paradox Opera, we’re passionate about stories that connect deeply — that blur the lines between opera and musical theatre, between classical artistry and contemporary relevance.

Next to Normal is a show that does exactly that. It asks hard questions about love, loss, and identity — and does so through music that’s as intimate as it is explosive.

We believe this work belongs in the same conversation as the operas we love: it’s emotionally charged, vocally thrilling, and profoundly human.

- For Cast, Creative Team, and more info on the production visit: http://www.paradoxopera.org/next-to-normal

ORIGINAL ART BY KAIASCH