Caissie Levy and Trevor Dion Nicholas to star in ‘Next to Normal’

The Donmar Warehouse also announces two more shows in its 30th anniversary season.

Artistic director Michael Longhurst and executive director Henny Finch have revealed further details for upcoming shows at the Donmar Warehouse in 2023. Additionally, Michael Longhurst will step down as artistic director of the Donmar Warehouse in February 2024.

"I could not be prouder of the Donmar team and all that we’ve achieved across my tenure – the impact of the pandemic on our industry was devastating, but in the face of this, I am so grateful that the team rose to the challenge, said Longhurst.

The season includes the UK premiere of Next to Normal, with previews from 12 August, ahead of a press night on 22 August, and performances to 7 October. The Pulitzer-winning musical follows Diana Goodman, a wife and other living with bipolar disorder.

Caissie Levy will return to the West End to play Diana. Her West End credits include Hair and Ghost, however she’s best known for originating the role of Elsa in the Frozen musical. Trevor Dion Nicholas will play Dr. Madden/Dr. Fine. He’s currently playing George Washington in Hamilton at the Victoria Palace Theatre. Further casting will be revealed at a later date.

Next to Normal features an original book and lyrics by Brian Yorkey, and music by Tom Kitt. Michael Longhurst directs, and the show features design by Chloe Lamford, lighting design by Lee Curran, and sound design by Tony Gayle.

Longhurst also directs a revival of Noel Coward’s Private Lives. Private Lives follows Elyot and Amanda, a divorced couple who, while on separate honeymoons to new partners, realise they’re next to one another.

Stephen Mangan and Rachael Stirling play Elyot and Amanda, joined by Laura Carmichael and Sargon Yelda. The show features designs by Hildegard Bechtler, and lighting design by Jack Knowles. Private Lives begins previews on 7 April, with an opening night on 13 April, and performances to 27 May.

Katy Rudd will also direct the world premiere of Jack Thorne’s new play. When Winston Went to War with the Wireless begins on 2 June, with a press night on 13 June, and performances to 29 July. Set in 1926, the play follows the battle for controlling news between The British Gazette and the British Broadcasting Company. Casting and a creative team will be announced at a later date.

Photo credit: Caissie Levy and Trevor Dion Nicholas (Photos courtesy of Donmar Warehouse)