Dear Evan Hansen

Wolverhampton Grand until 5th April

***** “Five stars ***** Go and watch it, it's going to be a good day. 

Not going to lie, words fail. It's an exhilarating ride of a show that portrays the roller coaster that a well-meaning lie can take you on, and we spend the show waiting to see when it's going to come back to bite Evan. Through Evan though we get the chance to see why we all have a reason to live; to make a difference to others and to keep people holding on. 

It's a heart wrenching performance from Ryan Kopel who switched seamlessly from the inarticulate, awkward dialogue to his captivating symphonies, particularly striking is his performance of the song: Words fail. Lauren Conroy pulled you in, playing Zoe Murphy, giving a grounded performance and serenades us with her sweet vocals. A definite mention must go to Alice Fern, as Heidi Hansen, for her powerhouse vocals and achingly truthful performance.

It's the choreography within the scenes that stands out, finely tuned and on point, mirroring the complex dynamic of turbulent relationships. Song writing duo of Benj Pasek and Justin Paul have punched this from the heart, and you leave the theatre singing the shows life affirming lyrics. The only thing to let the show down was the shaky follow spot which distracted from the incredible performances. 

Created in partnership with The Mix, the UK’s leading digital charity for under 25s, it strikes a chord reenforcing that we are not alone, promoting self-care and connection in our isolated society. I am not alone in saying: go and watch it, it's going to be a good day. 

Reviewed by Ben Castle