Dear Evan Hansen Review – Empire Theatre, Liverpool

This is our review of Dear Evan Hansen at Liverpool‘s Empire Theatre!

Synopsis Of Dear Evan Hansen

Evan is a 17-year-old student who struggles to make friends and gain acceptance. His only “friend”, Jared, takes pride in mocking Evan, as does Connor Murphy. Now, Connor is a troubled soul who has violent outbursts, but he seemingly establishes a connection to Evan. This is significant because Evan has real romantic feelings for Connor’s sister Zoe, a fact that greatly angers Connor.

Shortly thereafter, we learn that Connor took his own life. But through a misunderstanding, Connor’s parents assume that Evan and Connor were friends. This expands into a larger lie that provides Evan with the relevance and popularity that he always wanted. Furthermore, it opens the door for him and Zoe to develop a relationship. But amidst home struggles and the burden of the truth, Evan’s letters and emails could act as his own undoing.

Analysis Of Dear Evan Hansen

My main takeaway from this show is the acting performance of Ryan Kopel, who is sensational as Evan Hansen. It’s a complex character to play due to the mannerisms, the speech struggles, the general nervousness, and the internal anxiety on display. I was thoroughly impressed by Kopel, whose acting here is amongst the best I have seen all year long. Not discounting the other cast members, of course; a very talented team brings this show to life.

Elsewhere, the songs are powerful and at times heart-wrenching, more so for how characters feel in the aftermath of Connor’s tragedy. However, there are plenty of lighter moments as well, with some scenes pushing the boundaries of taste in amusing fashion. Meanwhile, the set designs are believable and bring a sense of reality to proceedings. And the story is unique while remaining easy to follow. I will note that the running time of nearly three hours did hinder my enjoyment of the less significant scenes.

Summary Of Dear Evan Hansen

I have heard many positive things about this show, and for good reason. To me, this is a “bucket list” show; a production you must go and see at least once. And there’s no better time to check it out than during its current run at Liverpool’s Empire Theatre!

Overall Rating: 9/10 – Outstanding