Review: Dear Evan Hansen at the New Wimbledon Theatre

Last Tuesday we had the absolute pleasure of seeing Dear Evan Hansen at the New Wimbledon Theatre, and it was nothing short of mesmerising. The production, part of its UK tour, brought the heart-wrenching story to life with raw emotion, stunning performances, and a beautifully immersive staging that left the audience spellbound.

For those unfamiliar with the musical, Dear Evan Hansen is a poignant exploration of teenage isolation, mental health, and the desperate human need for connection. It follows Evan Hansen, an anxious and socially awkward high schooler who becomes entangled in a web of lies after a classmate, Connor Murphy, takes his own life. What begins as a misunderstanding—Evan fabricating a friendship with Connor—spirals into a viral social media sensation, offering Evan the acceptance and belonging he’s always craved. However, as the deception grows, Evan is forced to confront the consequences of his actions and the fragile reality he has created.

The show’s themes of grief, identity, and redemption resonate deeply, making it a profoundly moving and relatable experience.

The New Wimbledon Theatre provided the perfect backdrop for this production. The grand yet intimate venue, with its ornate architecture and warm ambiance, added to the magic of the evening. From the moment the first note played, the audience was captivated.

The cast delivered extraordinary performances, Ryan Kopel took on the titular role of Evan Hansen, delivering a nuanced portrayal of a socially anxious teenager entangled in a web of deceit. Kopel's performance was lauded for its emotional depth, effectively conveying Evan's internal struggles and desires.

Lauren Conroy, as Zoe Murphy, brought a delicate balance of vulnerability and strength to her character, complementing Kopel's Evan and enriching the narrative's emotional landscape. Alice Fearn, known for her roles in "Wicked" and "Come From Away," portrayed Heidi Hansen, Evan's mother. Fearn's rendition of "So Big/So Small" was particularly moving, capturing the complexities of maternal love and concern

The production’s technical elements were equally impressive. The minimalist yet innovative set design, featuring shifting panels and dynamic projections of social media feeds, seamlessly reflected Evan’s increasingly chaotic internal world. The lighting and sound design further amplified the emotional impact, particularly during "You Will Be Found", which had many in the audience wiping away tears.

As the final notes rang out, the audience leapt to their feet in a well-deserved standing ovation. The cast’s emotional vulnerability and musical prowess left an indelible mark, and the applause was long and heartfelt—a true testament to the power of live theatre.

Seeing Dear Evan Hansen at the New Wimbledon Theatre was an unforgettable experience. The show’s raw honesty, coupled with the cast’s breathtaking performances, made for an emotionally charged and profoundly moving night. It’s a production that lingers with you long after the final bow—a reminder of the importance of kindness, connection, and the simple power of being found.

Words by Sal F.