Dear Evan Hansen - Cheltenham Everyman REVIEW

From the moment the show opens with the poignant Waving Through A Window to its emotionally charged conclusion, Dear Evan Hansen has the Cheltenham audience in the palm of its hand. 

Ryan Kopel as Evan Hansen delivers a remarkable performance, stepping into the iconic role with ease and authenticity. Despite the daunting task of following in the footsteps of Sam Tutty and Ben Platt, Kopel made the character his own, portraying Evan’s anxiety with a genuine vulnerability that immediately draws you in. His portrayal ensures the audience roots for Evan’s complex, morally fraught journey, a testament to Kopel’s nuanced acting and powerful singing.

The supporting cast was equally impressive. Due to cast illness, ensemble members Will Forgave and Daniel Forrester stepped up to the plate and brought a dynamic energy as Connor Murphy and Jared Kleinman, respectively. Their trio performance of Sincerely Me alongside Kopel was a standout moment, showcasing impeccable synchronisation, sharp choreography, and perfectly timed humour. It felt as if the three had been performing together every night, creating one of the evening’s most entertaining sequences.

Alice Fearn shone in her portrayal of Evan’s mother, her performance layered with emotion as she navigated the struggles of supporting her son while managing her own challenges. Fearn’s voice soared during her solo moments, leaving a profound impression and adding depth to the production.

What sets Dear Evan Hansen apart from other adolescent coming-of-age tales is its profound emotional core. The storyline skillfully intertwines themes of love, loss, and belonging, made all the more resonant by its exploration of social media’s impact on mental health. The production’s clever use of video elements, seamlessly integrated into the set design, vividly illustrates the overwhelming digital flurry surrounding Evan’s story. These elements, adapted from the West End production, worked well in the Everyman’s more intimate setting.

The first act, though around 80 minutes long, feels brisk and engaging. Memorable numbers such as Waving Through A Window and You Will Be Found resonate deeply, each eliciting enthusiastic cheers from the younger audience members who were visibly moved by the show’s themes.

There isn’t a weak link in the cast, and the chemistry among the ensemble brings the story’s emotional beats to life with precision and heart. The production underscores Dear Evan Hansen’s core message: that connection, even imperfect and messy, can save us. This heartfelt and powerful performance will linger in the minds of its audience long after the curtain falls.