#TheaterPH - "Next to Normal" Returns: A Powerful Musical Journey with The Sandbox Collective
The Sandbox Collective is kicking off its second decade anniversary with a bang by presenting the critically acclaimed, Tony Award-winning musical "Next to Normal" starting February 3, 2025. This powerful production delves into complex themes of love, loss, mental illness, grief, and family dynamics, promising to resonate deeply with audiences.
A Stellar Cast
The cast of "Next to Normal" features Shiela Valderrama and Nikki Valdez, who will alternate in the role of the matriarch Diana Goodman. Nikki, a talented singer and artist, makes her return to theater with this production. She is best known for her iconic roles in the "Ang Tanging Ina" film franchise and recently received the FAMAS Best Supporting Actress award for her performance in "Family Matters." She also makes her theater comeback after her acclaimed role in 9Works Theatrical’s "The Wedding Singer."
On the other hand, actress, singer, and host Shiela Valderrama was last seen on stage as Erzulie in 9Works Theatrical’s "Once On This Island." Shiela is a Gawad Buhay and Aliw Award winner, with a career spanning over three decades. Most recently, she portrayed Sita in "Rama Hari" and Fosca in "Passion."
Talented Ensemble
Alternating in the role of the husband Dan are OJ Mariano and Floyd Tena. Floyd is a multimedia artist with a wealth of work in theater, television, and film. He is a Philstage Gawad Buhay nominee for his performance in "Sandosenang Sapatos." OJ is the resident tenor of the country’s premiere vocal group, The Company, and an Awit Award recipient for Best New Male Recording Artist. He is also a Philstage Gawad Buhay awardee for his performance in "Rama Hari."
Playing the perfect daughter Natalie Goodman are Sheena Belarmino and Jam Binay. Jam is a singer-songwriter and versatile theater artist with credits including "Bar Boys: A New Musical," "Virgin Labfest 19: Pintog’s Sa Babaeng Lahat," "Pingkian: Isang Musikal," "Ardor," and "Ang Huling El Bimbo." Sheena is a singer, dancer, actress, and Star Magic talent, known for her appearances in "Lyric and Beat," "ASAP Natin ‘To," and "It’s Showtime."
Vino Mabalot and Benedix Ramos will portray the elusive Gabe Goodman. Vino is an up-and-coming theater actor and talent under Star Magic, renowned for his compelling performances. Benedix is an actor, singer-songwriter, commercial model, host, and content creator managed by Star Hunt/Star Magic ABS-CBN.
Omar Uddin and Davy Narciso will share the role of Henry, the young man who falls in love with Natalie. Omar is a talented actor and singer with standout performances in musicals like "Mula sa Buwan" and "Ibong Adarna." Davy is a sought-after theater actor with credits including "Going Home to Christmas: A Jose Mari Chan Musical" and "I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change."
Jef Flores will play the role of the psychiatrist, Dr. Madden. Jef is an award-winning actor and musician known for his nuanced performances in both theater and independent films.
Creative Team
At the helm of the production is The Sandbox Collective’s managing artistic director, Toff De Venecia, who is also the director of the production. Tom Kitt composed the music, and Brian Yorkey wrote the book and lyrics. Joining the team are Ejay Yatco as musical director and Stephen Viñas as choreographer. Mark Daniel Dalacat serves as Production Designer/Associate Director, while Elliza Dawn Aurelio is the Hair & Make-Up Designer. Jonas Garcia takes on the role of dramaturg, and Serena Magiliw acts as Intimacy Coach. Gabo Tolentino is the Lighting Designer, with Aji Manalo as Sound Designer/Engineer. Francisco Miguel Yabut completes the team as Technical Director.
Don't Miss Out
"Next to Normal" will run from February 1 to 23, 2025, at the Power Mac Center Spotlight Blackbox Theater. When it debuted on Broadway in 2009, it sparked important conversations about mental health in mainstream theater, winning three Tony Awards and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama.
For more information, follow The Sandbox Collective on Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok. Secure your tickets now and experience a show that touches the heart and stirs the soul. Get your tickets via Ticket2Me at ticket2me.net/sandboxn2n.
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