Art and science come together as Emory Healthcare and Emory University School of Medicine's Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences partner with the Alliance Theatre to bring mental health awareness to the Atlanta community. 

The Alliance Theatre will stage the Tony Award and Pulitzer Prize winning musical "Next to Normal" Oct. 17-Nov. 11, 2012. It is the story of a suburban family coping with the effects of mental illness, and Emory psychiatry faculty are serving as medical consultants to the director and cast of the show.

"Mental illness touches everyone — one in four people in this country is dealing with some form of psychiatric disorder," says Mark Hyman Rapaport, chair of the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences. "We are delighted to provide professional insight to the performers, and we see this as an opportunity to begin a dialogue with the community about mental illness, new advances in treatment and exciting leading edge research that provides hope for all."

Before Play (pre-show) and After Words (post show) events will allow audience members a chance to engage in conversation about the issues and ideas presented in the play. Emory faculty members will be on hand during each discussion to facilitate the conversations and answer questions about mental illness. A table will be set up in the theatre lobby with educational materials, provider information and free screening opportunities. A mental health professional will be available to assist in giving people direction on how to find the best resources.

"Next to Normal" tickets are available online or by calling 404-733-5000.