REVIEW: Dear Evan Hansen – King’s Theatre, Glasgow

Evan, 17 years old, bullied, suffering from social anxiety, depression and a recently broken arm, is currently seeing a therapist who encourages him to write motivational letters to himself. When one of these letters falls into the hands of school bully Connor, who subsequently completes suicide, a maelstrom of misunderstanding and misrepresentation begins.

Connor’s parents mistakenly believe that Evan and their son are friends and embrace him in a way his own family never have. Failing to correct the lie and basking in the glory of his new-found popularity, Evan launches a social media campaign in Connor’s memory, which goes viral. Unable to disentangle himself from the situation, he digs himself deeper into the mire.

For those unsure, and despite the apparent gravity of the subject matter, there is plenty of levity in this tale of teenage angst all handled beautifully in the writing and direction.

Risks have been taken by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul in heavily loading the first act with the big-hitting musical numbers: You Will Be Found and Waving Through a Window  but the mood and energy of the contemporary numbers perfectly match the tone of the piece throughout.

What is most impressive in this first UK touring production is the sheer quality in every aspect. From singing, acting and musicianship, to the way the most sensitive and the silliest moments are handled with equal skill and care.

In a cast of such quality, including West End royalty Alice Fern, Ryan Kopel shines as an absolute superstar in the making. His beautifully toned voice and his sure-footed acting skills with a perfectly pitched physicality, beautifully embody Evan.

This was an audience enrapt – silent throughout the action, erupting in applause at each highlight. Just perfect.

Runs until 1 March 2025 | Image: Marc Brenner