By james art Music and Lyrics: Benj Pasek and Justin Paul
book: Stephen Levenson
Director: Adam Penford
Musical theater is a powerful art form. It has the ability to unite, connect and empower. Dear Evan Hansen meets all these requirements as it deals with some of the most sensitive and relatable subjects that a modern musical has dared to tackle.
Stephen Levenson brings to life a powerful and emotional story about a young and vulnerable Evan, who finds it harder than most to feel accepted by himself and others. Add in American high school stereotypes and Evan faces a wave of isolation, bullying and rejection.
When his therapist assigns him to write letters to himself to unlock the pain he’s trapped in, Evan soon makes things worse for himself when his colleague Connor finds his last letter expressing his admiration for his, Connor’s, Sister Zoe. When Connor sadly takes his own life days later, Evan is faced with a dilemma when his letters allow him to develop an artificial identity that conflicts with his morals.
Mental health is a major theme of the musical and charities recognized the show’s ability to raise awareness of such an important and widespread issue in this way. Although Evan Hansen is the main character, each character faces their own struggles and this adds more authenticity to the relationships that develop on stage.
The musical numbers by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul complement the story extremely well. Not only are the songs relevant and fit seamlessly, but they also connect emotionally with each character’s plight at crucial moments in their journeys. On the subject of mental health, e.g. disappearhits on the feelings of loneliness and isolation that many go through and puts that at the heart of the show early on.
Each song is personal, but You will be found is the most empowering as the audience remains stunned in the interval. The lyrics are heartwarming and the song becomes uplifting in the climax once all the characters are added. The lighting design is also effective during this number as the cold blue spotlight on Evan feels atmospheric and captures the emotion well.
The focus on social media and its impact is crystal clear in this production, and it only adds to the mounting pressure Evan faces as his web of lies unravels. The use of drop-down screens with thousands reacting to the news reflects the real world and the danger of even the most personal news becoming an internet hit to be gossiped about.
Ryan Koppel is outstanding as Evan. His ability to trade between the socially awkward outcast and a deeply caring and emotional figure is truly fascinating and he takes the audience on this journey with him.
A big part of what makes Evan socially awkward is his ever-growing feelings for Zoe Murphy. Lauren Conroy does an outstanding job portraying a character who has her own issues on the other side of the social spectrum to Evan. Carrying the burden of popularity in high school, Zoe faces the problems of a dysfunctional family life after the death of her brother. Conroy does a very good job of helping us relate to what Zoe is going through as she hopes to find her own sense of peace as the story continues. Requiem is a remarkable solo performed beautifully by Conroy as she comes to terms with what happened.
The rest of the cast are equally strong in their performances and there are opportunities for everyone to share their own feelings through the musical numbers. While it may seem like the story is focused on Evan’s journey, the way it’s written really gives everyone a voice.
That’s what the show is all about. Dear Evan Hansen will break your heart and rebuild it piece by piece. There are likely to be many tears in the audience as the story is so up close and personal to many of those watching; simply put, not to be missed.
It runs until October 26, 2024 and is on tour