As I sat in the Theatre Royal, Norwich, waiting for the curtains to open on Dear Evan Hansen, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation. This show has been making waves all over the world, especially among the younger generation, since its debut a decade ago. And it’s easy to see why – its theme of awkwardness, self-doubt, and the struggle to belong is something that resonates deeply with many of us, regardless of age. The story follows Evan Hansen, a shy and isolated high school student who finds himself caught up in a web of deceit and lies, all while trying to navigate the complexities of adolescence. As the show’s protagonist, Evan is beautifully portrayed by Scotsman Ryan Kopel, who brings a depth and nuance to the character that is both captivating and heartbreaking.
One of the things that sets Dear Evan Hansen apart from other shows is its willingness to tackle tough subject matter, including mental health challenges and the struggles of growing up. The show deals with some heavy themes, including the suicide of one leading character and the attempted suicide of another, but it does so with sensitivity and care. The song lyrics are particularly noteworthy, as they provide a powerful and emotional exploration of the characters’ inner lives and struggles. As I watched the show, I was struck by the way it balanced humor and pathos, often finding moments of laughter and levity even in the darkest of times. This is a testament to the show’s clever writing and the talented cast, who bring the characters to life with warmth, wit, and vulnerability.
At its heart, Dear Evan Hansen is a show about connection and disconnection. It explores the ways in which we struggle to reach out to others, to form meaningful relationships, and to find our place in the world. Evan’s story is a powerful reminder that we are not alone in our struggles, and that even in the darkest of times, there is always hope for a better tomorrow. As the show progresses, we see Evan getting caught up in a huge deceit, one that allows him to glimpse a different life, one that he loves. But as the lie begins to unravel, Evan’s world comes crashing down, including his fledgling relationship with Zoe, wonderfully played by Lauren Conroy. The chemistry between the two leads is palpable, and their romance is a sweet and tender highlight of the show.
The cast of Dear Evan Hansen is truly exceptional, with standout performances from the entire ensemble. Alice Fearn shines as Heidi Hansen, Evan’s weary and hard-working mom, who is struggling to connect with her son and provide for her family. Tom Dickerson is also excellent as Jared, Evan’s cheeky and charismatic schoolfriend, who provides some much-needed comic relief. The whole cast delivers in this fairly lengthy show, which clocks in at over three hours, including interval. But despite its length, the show never feels slow or dragging, thanks to the talented cast and clever pacing. As the curtain fell at 10:20 pm, I felt exhausted but exhilarated, my emotions raw and my heart full.
Dear Evan Hansen is a show that will stay with you long after the curtain falls. It’s a powerful exploration of the human condition, one that highlights the struggles and triumphs of growing up. The show’s themes of mental health, social media, and the complexities of relationships are timely and timeless, and its message of hope and resilience is one that we can all learn from. As I left the theatre, I felt grateful for the experience, and I couldn’t help but think about the show’s impact on the younger generation. This is a show that will resonate deeply with teenagers and young adults, who will see themselves and their struggles reflected in the characters and storylines. But it’s also a show that will appeal to audiences of all ages, who will be moved by its powerful storytelling, memorable characters, and catchy music.
As I reflect on Dear Evan Hansen, I am reminded of the power of theatre to touch our hearts and minds. This show is a testament to the enduring appeal of live performance, which has the ability to move, inspire, and transform us in ways that few other art forms can. If you haven’t already, I highly recommend catching Dear Evan Hansen during its run at the Theatre Royal, Norwich. With its talented cast, clever writing, and powerful themes, this show is an unforgettable experience that will stay with you long after the curtain falls. And as the show’s message of hope and resilience suggests, even in the darkest of times, there is always a way forward, always a chance to find our place in the world and to connect with others in meaningful and lasting ways. Dear Evan Hansen is a show that will leave you feeling seen, heard, and understood, and it’s an experience that you won’t soon forget.
