The Musical Theatre Guild’s fall offering, “Next to Normal” opens Oct. 17 at the Succop Theater at Butler County Community College.

The Tony Award-winning show with book and lyrics by Brian Yorkey and music by Tom Kitt is classified as a rock musical, and it won the 2010 Pulitzer Prize for Drama.

The story is about Diana Goodman and the mental health issues she struggles with as she tries to function within her family.

The role of Diana in the MTG production is being played by Paula Baptiste of Butler.

“In this poignant show, the mask of the perfect family is removed and the challenges of dealing with mental illness are exposed,” said Baptiste, who had never heard of the show prior to being asked to be a part of it.

“I was intrigued by the premise, and while somewhat dark, found it deeply moving,” she said.

The role of Natalie Goodman, Diana’s daughter, will be portrayed by Megan Flannery of Butler. She was drawn to the show because of the music.

“This show has been on my bucket list for the past couple of years. I became familiar with the song ‘Superboy and the Invisible Girl,’ which I get to sing in the show and from that point on I knew I really desperately wanted to play this role,” Flannery said.

With the subject matter being unfamiliar, she finds the role a challenge.

“This show and character are a great challenge. I have not, luckily, dealt in my own life with all my character is dealing with. I’m trying my best to put myself in her shoes. The writing is so good that you can connect with the characters and have sympathy for what they’re going through,” she said.

In the role of Diana’s son Gabriel will be Zachary Frye of Marion Township.

“I try to bring an edge to the character to show a type of angst in teenagers,” said Frye who is not portraying his typical type of character.

“This role is challenging because it is so much different than anything I have done. I am used to having to charm and now not doing that it is proving difficult,” said Frye, a senior at Slippery Rock University.

Directors Brady Patsy and Justin Anderson also have roles in the show, along with Jim Kasparek. Karen O’Donnell and Jessica Sanzotti serve as the musical directors. The producer is Barb Osche.

Note that the show contains adult subject matter and language which may make it unsuitable for a younger audience.