Next to Normal is a rock musical that tells the story of a mother with worsening bipolar disorder, and the effect that her illness has on her family. The set design creates an interior space that is strange and off-kilter. The ceiling beams slant upwards; the wall disintegrates on the right to reveal a black hole and bare bulbs behind the set. Parallel cross-generational narratives are an important aspect of this musical - the spaces above and below the platform are designed precisely to highlight those moments. The white palette of this set connotes the psychiatric theme of the musical and lends itself to dramatic light effects during the climax of the piece. The set's fluid transitions between home and psychiatric clinic surprises the viewer and amplifies the disorienting effect of this rock musical.