Dear Evan Hansen

Alexandra Theatre Birmingham

**** “high class and edgy”

Another almost full house at The Alexandra last night for the staging of Dear Evan Hanson, a musical which has been touring the UK after winning six Tony Awards and three Olivier Awards in New York and London respectively.  The brilliantly original musical comes from the pens of Benj Pasek and Justin Paul – well known as the writers of La La Land and The Greatest Showman.

The story covers many teenage problems – loneliness, uncertainty. love and general angst, familiar to most of us whether from our own youth or as parents, as Evan gets drawn into an escalating situation following the suicide of a fellow High School pupil.  Sounds an unlikely subject for a musical.  Yes, but believe me there is plenty of humour and affection – not to mention the excellent singing and acting from the entire cast, especially from Ryan Kopel in the title role who can express a range of emotions not only through vocals but with his excellent use of facial expressions and body language. 

The cleverly designed set with its sliding elements, changed almost imperceptibly to reveal so many different venues, and worked so very well alongside the clever lighting and projection plot to ensure a fast-paced production which never flagged.  This way of presenting a modern musical really worked with this production as the cast, principals and ensemble, guided tables, lockers, beds, and chairs into place so there was never a pause in the fast-unfolding storyline.

The live small band worked hard – accompanying the fourteen-strong cast in sixteen musical numbers (including two reprises).

The cast fully deserved the standing ovation they received on Tuesday night!

Playing until Saturday and then touring

David Robinson