You Will Be Found
Dear Evan Hansen Theatre Review
My photo of the stage and programme.
A 'Part of Me' has been so excited to see this musical, since before the
production started their North America tour. I’ve followed this
show go from Broadway, to Toronto and all the way across America, before it was finally announced that it would
be coming to the Noël Coward
Theatre this Autumn.
I got to see it on Tuesday 12th November, during previews, and it was definitely worth the two year wait!
I got to see it on Tuesday 12th November, during previews, and it was definitely worth the two year wait!
This
was my 21st birthday present from my friend, and fellow
blogger, Imogen. I
shared my initial thoughts in a Dear Evan Hansen group on Facebook,
but wanted to do a full review to release after yesterday’s press
night.
Without
spoiling the play, Dear Evan Hansen follows the story of Evan, a
senior in High School who just wants to fit in. After a letter that
was never supposed to be seen gets out, Evan takes the opportunity to
experience things he’s never had. A powerful, emotive story that
had me smiling, laughing and crying throughout.
The photo I took of the stage and my ticket.
I
was sat in the Grand Circle, which had a really great view. I did
have to angle my head every so often because of the person in front
of me, but it really didn’t impact my view at all. Only the very
front of the stage was slightly restricted, but since there wasn’t
any acting there, it didn’t bother me at all.
Meeting Marcus Harman - Alternate Evan.
The
West End company were spectacular. I won't go through and list every cast member, but be rest assured, they were all incredible! I was worried I’d have
reservations because I love the Broadway company and how they sing
the songs. There was no need to be worried, each song sounded similar
and uniquely different. Marcus Harman nailed Evan – you wouldn’t
have believed he was the alternate Evan, or it being his second
performance! I’ve heard wonderful things about Sam Tutty, who plays
Evan for 6 out of the 8 weekly performances too, so I’ll be sure to
check him out when I can next afford to go.
Sam Tutty - Evan Hansen - Photo from Daily Mail Article.
The
songs fit so perfectly within the narrative, and after hearing them
in context, it’s so hard to casually listen to them now. I also see
why some songs were cut from musical and released only as the debut.
‘For Forever’ is emotional enough, let alone ‘Part of Me’
being played instead.
However,
there were a few minor issues before and during the show that I hope
will be fixed now that previews are over.
There
was no cast board in the foyer, and the photo rules weren’t made
clear. Some theatre goers were told no photos and others took photos, but
no one was told to delete any that they'd taken.
During
the show, I noticed that some of the music overpowered the singing.
Most notably during ‘Sincerely, Me.’ It’s an upbeat song
anyway, and although we could hear the singing, it was a big off
putting at certain points. I’ve heard it’s an improvement from
earlier previews, but I think it still needs a little bit of fine
tuning to be perfect.
On the steps outside the theatre. One of the most powerful songs in the show.
I
highly recommend you go and see this show. Despite needing some minor
fixes, it doesn’t take away from the overall theatre performance at
all. It’s emotional, moving and highly relatable. Also, if you’re
interested in the use of technology in theatre, this is definitely a
must – I was reminded a lot of Curious Incident in that respect.
I’m
definitely going to see it again when I get the chance.
5
out of 5 Stars!
