The Iberia Performing Arts League is gearing up for a more serious production that will flex the drama muscles of some of the Teche Area’s best talent.

“Next to Normal” is the directorial debut for IPAL veteran Angie Sanford, who is excited to bring the show to IPAL supporters for the fall.

“Next to Normal” debuted  and will run Oct. 20, 21 and 22 and Oct. 26 to29. Tickets can be purchased at the door or by heading to www.tix.com.

Sanford said the chance to direct “Next to Normal ” was a “big step” for her involvement with IPAL and also a great chance to work with some of the best actors and actresses in the area.

“I’ve known about this show for a while,” Sanford said. “It’s one of those that kind of hits home and it’s October so it fell perfectly with wanting to bring awareness to mental illness.”

The rock musical follows a mother dealing with her worsening bipolar depression and how it affects her family.

“It’s definitely a drama, be ready to cry,” Sanford said. “But it also opens doors for people, I had one friend who saw it with her daughter and they had a great conversation about mental illness on the drive home.”

Sanford also warned that the show has simulated drug use and simulated suicide attempts, so those attending should be expecting adult themes in the production.

As for the cast and crew, Sanford said she couldn’t be happier with how the show turned out.

“I have an all-star cast, a lot of heavy hitters that came out but we also have some new people,” she said. “I’m excited to see some of these people we all know act in more serious roles.”

One of those is Billy Walker, who is playing the part of Dan.

Walker, a longtime IPAL supporter himself, said having the chance to perform in a drama was a nice change of pace from his usual style of acting.

“The fun part for me was doing a different role,” Walker said. “I primarily do more fun upbeat stuff. It’s been fun getting out of my comfort zone.”

Having Kayleigh Lay, who is playing the part of the mother Diana, was also a highlight of the show.

“I don’t think Kayleigh has ever had a leading role at IPAL and I’m excited for people to see what she can bring because she’s always seen as a director,” Sanford said.