⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ A Heartfelt Masterpiece!

Today is going to be a good day. And here’s why…

The Olivier, Tony, and Grammy award-winning musical Dear Evan Hansen has arrived on stage at The Alexandra Theatre.

With the Book by Steven Levenson, and Music and Lyrics by Benj Pasek & Justin Paul (The Greatest Showman), I have seen the rave reviews and heard the songs a thousand times, and to say I was excited is an understatement.

The story follows Evan Hansen, a socially anxious teenager whose life takes a drastic turn after a misunderstanding leads him to become an unexpected beacon of hope for a grieving family. The musical’s exploration of loneliness, the pressures of social media, and the search for belonging feels achingly relevant in today’s world.

The performances, particularly Ryan Kopel portraying Evan, are simply breathtaking. Evan’s vulnerability and internal struggle are portrayed with such nuance that it’s impossible not to empathise with him. 

Connor Murphy (Killian Thomas LeFevre), whose tragic death sets the story in motion, remains a haunting presence, reflecting the themes of isolation and misunderstanding.

Evan’s mother, Heidi (Alice Fearn), provides a contrasting perspective, as a hardworking single parent trying her best to support her son, while characters like Jared (Tom Dickerson) and Alana (Vivian Panka) offer both comic relief and insight into the pressures of modern teenage life.

Zoe Murphy (Lauren Conroy), Connor’s sister, is another pivotal character, bringing a sense of hope and compassion as she seeks her own path through grief.

The Murphy family, grappling with their loss, highlight the struggles of communication within a family in crisis, with parents Larry and Cynthia Murphy (Richard Hurst and Helen Anker) being at odds in how they deal with their grief.

What sets Dear Evan Hansen apart is its ability to blend powerful storytelling with an extraordinary score. The songs, penned by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, are nothing short of mesmerising. Tracks like “Waving Through a Window” and “You Will Be Found” resonate on a deep level, leaving the audience both moved and inspired. The vocal talents of every single performer are possibly the best of any touring company out there, and each song feels perfectly placed within the narrative, adding layers of depth to the characters’ journeys.

I openly cried. Twice. “You Will Be Found” was one of the most powerful and emotional performances I have had the pleasure of witnessing.  

Visually, the production is a marvel. The set design incorporates digital screens and projections in a way that enhances the storytelling without feeling gimmicky. These modern elements reflect the omnipresence of technology in the characters’ lives, while also serving as a reminder of the fine line between public persona and private self.

Dear Evan Hansen is a triumph, blending contemporary themes with timeless emotions. It’s a musical that speaks to the soul, reminding us all of the power of compassion and the importance of being heard. Whether you are a fan of musical theatre or simply appreciate a compelling, heartfelt story, Dear Evan Hansen is a must-see. 

Dear Evan Hansen will be on stage at The Alexandra Theatre until Saturday 26th October 2024. You can get your tickets here – I’ve already purchased tickets to see another performance later in the week.