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Regional Reviews: Phoenix Dear Evan Hansen Also see Gil's reviews of The Cottage, Blues in the Night, Jersey Boys and Anything Goes
The musical follows Evan Hansen, an anxious and socially awkward high school student who inadvertently gets caught up in a lie after the death of a classmate, Connor Murphy. What begins as a misunderstanding spirals into a fabricated friendship that brings Evan unexpected popularity and a sense of belonging, even as he struggles with the guilt of his actions and the realization that he's gotten in too deep. With an emotionally rich Tony winning score by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul that blends contemporary pop-rock melodies with deeply personal lyrics, and a thoughtful Tony-winning book by Steven Levenson, Dear Evan Hansen features an emotionally charged story that explores the consequences of seeking validation in all the wrong places, the consequences of a lie, and the downside of telling people what they want to hear when it's not true. The score perfectly captures themes of loneliness, hope, and human connection and features several songs that have become very popular. "Waving Through a Window" powerfully conveys Evan's isolation and yearning to be seen, while "You Will Be Found," with its message of unity and reassurance, serves as the show's soaring, cathartic anthem. Michael Greif's original Tony-nominated Broadway direction is skillfully restaged for the tour by Danny Sharron, while Danny Mefford's choreography is recreated by Mark Myars. The production retains Greif's intimate and fluid staging that made the Broadway version so compelling, keeping the focus on the emotional weight of the characters' journeys. This non-Equity cast is exceptional, led by Michael Fabisch, who brings both vulnerability and a stunning vocal performance to Evan, the overly apologetic teen who just wants to be noticed. Bre Cade delivers a deeply moving portrayal of Evan's struggling but loving mother Heidi. The scene they share in the second act is delivered with such realism that you may believe that Fabisch and Cade are actually mother and son. Hatty Ryan King is a strong and heartfelt Zoe Murphy, Connor's sister, balancing grief, anger and hope in her portrayal. Caitlin Sams is heartbreaking as Cynthia Murphy, a grieving mother desperate for answers. Jeff Brooks brings a grounded, reserved strength to Connor's father Larry, while Alex Pharo's Connor Murphy is a haunting presence throughout. Gabriel Vernon Nunag provides great comedic timing as Evan's friend, Jared Kleinman, and Makena Jackson shines with an intense determination to be seen and heard as Evan's classmate, Alana Beck. David Korins' sleek, minimalistic set design is enhanced by Japhy Weideman's evocative Tony-nominated lighting and Peter Nigrini's expansive projections, which capture the chaotic and overwhelming nature of social media and teenage anxiety. These elements blend seamlessly to create an immersive experience that highlights the emotional stakes of the story. Emily Rebholz's costumes are character specific. Music director Michael Hopewell derives rich vocals from the cast and a wonderful sound from the small but excellent nine-piece orchestra. With its wonderful cast, emotionally resonating storytelling, and stunningly immersive visual design, the national tour of Dear Evan Hansen is a beautifully realized and deeply affecting production. The musical remains a powerful and emotional piece of musical theatre and a deeply moving journey of redemption, forgiveness and hope. Dear Evan Hansen runs through March 2, 2025, at the Mesa Arts Center, 1 East Main Street, Mesa AZ. For tickets and information, please call 480-644-6500 or visit mesaartscenter.com/index.php/shows/broadway. For information on the tour, visit www.dehtour.com/tour. Book: Steven Levenson Cast: |
