am. RATING For the guys -- Don't let a bipolar female character scare you away. Mental illness knows no gender and neither does this story. The issues and emotions will affect you deeply as you find ways to relate to each of the characters in this show. SEE IT For the girls -- No 'crazy lady' stereotypes here. The women in Next to Normal are treated with respect and offer up remarkably realistic portraits of emotion and frustration and even moments of joy. SEE IT For the occasional theatre goer -- Probably not the feel good musical that you gravitate towards and this may be too modern and alternative for you. But if you want to stretch yourself and see what a musical about real life problems is like, this is the one to go to. MAYBE SEE IT For the theatre junkie -- It's an important and compelling show to add to your cannon and happily, Theatre Calgary presents a performance worthy of all the accolades. SEE IT