You Will Be Found: Dear Evan Hansen Review

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!

Dear Evan Hansen London announcement.

This was my 21^st 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! 

Dear Evan Hansen is currently booking until May 2020, with tickets starting at £15. Tickets can be found here: Delfont Mackintosh Theatres.

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