Next to Normal is always compared to Dear Evan Hansen, but can we also talk about Jagged Little Pill?
Nuclear family of husband, wife, son, daughter. NtN [The Goodmans] JLP [The Healys]
In NtN, Gabe dies, and they have Natalie as a replacement. In JLP, son survives, they try for a daughter and end up adopting Frankie.
Same premise between the two. Neurotic mom with (possible*) substance issues that almost die. Husband/Father figure that is trying and failing to some extent to notice the things happening around them.
In NtN, Diana hates taking her medication since it takes away all feelings. It takes a month for her husband to notice his manic wife. In JLP, Mary Jane got into an accident and became dependent on her medication. She seeks more out, and no one notices until she ODs.
Daughter who feels like an outsider in the family and seeks comfort in a partner(s). In NtN, Natalie seeks comfort in Henry. In JLP, Frankie has Jo and Phoenix.
Golden child son who can do no wrong even when in fact does. Gabe causes his mother to attempt suicide. Nick is the star student who contemplates whether or not he should say something about what he sees regarding someone getting SA'd at a party.
In this Ted Talk I will...
