Dear Evan Hansen – A Review
Ad. I was gifted these tickets in return for my honest review. All opinions are my own. Thank you for coming to read Dear Evan Hansen – A Review.
Dear Evan Hansen has been on my list to see at the Theatre since its debut in 2016. It follows Evan Hansen, a socially anxious teen, who becomes entangled in a web of lies after the death of a classmate. What follows is a powerful, moving and very poignant musical that covers the complexities of those teenage years, mental health and social media.
I’ve seen the Film production a number of times, and the incredible soundtrack is one of my favourites of all time. The iconic song ‘You will be found’ is probably my favourite song from a musical and, judging by the tears being shed around us at the theatre last night, I am not alone.
On the topic of the show’s score, which was composed by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, is both haunting and uplifting, with songs like “Waving Through a Window” and “Requiem” resonating deeply with audiences. The music is so beautifully written and clever, telling the story in a sensitive but catchy way. There is also some much-needed humour peppered throughout the production.
The performances are nothing short of stellar. I say it all the time (don’t we have such incredible theatre talent in this Country?!) But Ryan Kopel, portraying Evan, delivers a heartfelt and intensely relatable depiction, effectively conveying the character’s vulnerabilities and desires. He’s absolutely incredible. The supporting cast brings depth to the story, each character grappling with their own issues, with a special shout out to the phenomenal Lauren Conroy as Zoe and Alice Fearn who plays Evans Mum, Heidi.
Visually, the production is striking, using a minimalist set design that allows the focus to remain on the characters and their emotions. I had wondered how they’d portray the Social media elements of the story but they do so with ease.
What an incredible piece of theatre. It’s a story that stays with you and has you unpicking its many important topics long after the final curtain comes down. I highly, highly recommend you add Dear Evan Hansen to your list of theatre productions to see. For more on what is coming up at New Victoria Theatre Woking, click here. There are some fantastic productions on their way!
