Reviewer: Chloë Cerva
Venue: Midland Center for the Arts
Dear Evan Hansen, a musical created by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul with a book by Steven Levenson, has been running since 2015 and is known for its sharp storytelling, emotive performances, and contemporary soundtrack. A tale about the complexities of mental health, loneliness, connection, and manipulation the show dives deep into the struggles of its main character, Evan Hansen, a high school student who finds himself caught in a lie that spirals out of control.
Michael Perez’s portrayal of Evan is nothing short of stunning. He brings a raw, vulnerable depth to the character, making Evan’s pain and isolation feel incredibly real. Perez’s voice, with its power and nuance, gives weight to each song, but it’s in “Waving Through a Window” where he truly shines—capturing that feeling of desperately wanting to be seen, but feeling invisible all at once.
The music, crafted by Pasek and Paul, has this unique blend of upbeat, jumpy piano riffs and smooth, soulful vocals. It’s like if Ben Folds and Ani DiFranco made a music baby—energetic yet introspective. Songs like “You Will Be Found” offer a glimmer of hope, while tracks like “For Forever” and “Requiem” break your heart with yearning.
But the show isn’t without its controversies. The themes of suicide and mental illness run deep, and for anyone who has personally dealt with these issues, the content may feel triggering. There are moments where Evan’s actions are hard to reconcile, and some may find the ethical problems of the characters underexplored, leaving certain choices feeling uneasy. You can feel the guilt seeping through many of Evan’s scenes.
Despite these discomforts, Dear Evan Hansen is quite powerful. The show taps into very human feelings of loneliness and the desire for acceptance. It is modern in a way where they mention Facebook, Instagram, e-mail —the digital age we live in now and can relate to. Themes of family and belonging come up a lot which will pull at your heartstrings. I won’t lie—I teared up twice.
Ultimately, Dear Evan Hansen is an emotional rollercoaster that makes you think. The music, the performances, and the confronting exploration of personal and societal struggles make it a moving, unforgettable experience.