I’d seen the film adaption of Dear Evan Hansen a couple of times and always thought it was a bit of an odd one. The songs are brilliant, but the story felt off, and as talented as Ben Platt is, something about his performance in the lead role didn’t quite land for me.
So I wasn’t sure what to expect from the stage show, but honestly? It was a completely different vibe. It just works so much better live. The whole thing feels sharper, funnier, more human… you actually get Evan as a character, and the story hangs together much more naturally. Turns out it really is a musical at heart, and the film just didn’t do it justice.
The plot’s still pretty dark of course; teen suicide, lies spiralling out of control, and the way social media can blow everything up in an instant. Some of it’s uncomfortable to watch, especially if you’re seeing it with a younger audience (I was there with my 11-year-old daughter), but it’s definitely particularly relevant and at times, thought-provoking.
Ryan Kopel, who plays Evan, is incredible. He’s got an awkward charm that feels manufactured, yes, but also totally convincing, and his voice is phenomenal… loads of emotion, power, and he never drops character for a second. You’re with him every step of the way, even when what he’s doing is a bit questionable.
Admittedly, there are bits of the plot that leave you scratching your head, and all the best tunes are crammed into the first half, but don’t let that detract from a truly emotional experience.
This isn’t your typical feel-good musical; it’s darker, more introspective, and challenges the genre’s usual conventions. But for fans of contemporary musical theatre, it’s a powerful and rewarding watch. Catch it while it’s in town.
Dear Evan Hansen runs at The Lyceum Theatre until 12 April. Tickets are available here.
