Dear Evan Hansen

Musical

Writers: Benj Pasek Justin Paul

Overview

Show Information

Category
Musical
Number of Acts
2
Tony Award®
Best Musical 2017
First Produced
2015
Genres
Drama, Dark Comedy
Settings
Contemporary
Cast Size
medium
Orchestra Size
Rock Combo
Dancing
Musical Staging
Ideal for
College/University, Community Theatre, High School, Professional Theatre, Regional Theatre
Casting Notes

Includes late teen, young adult, adult, mature adult characters

Synopsis

Dear Evan Hansen tells the story of a young man with social anxiety disorder who so yearns to make a connection with his peers that he fabricates a relationship with a deceased student to become closer to the boy’s family. When a classmate commits suicide, shy Evan Hansen finds himself at the center of the tragedy and turmoil. In a misguided attempt to comfort the boy’s grieving family, Evan pretends that he was actually good friends with their son. He invents a fabricated email account to “prove” their friendship, and when a fake suicide note makes its way online, Evan finds himself the unintended face of a viral video about loneliness and friendship.

As his social currency skyrockets, Evan is drawn deeper and deeper into the lie. His relationship with his actual mother wanes in comparison to that of his “shiny new family.” He finally lands the girl of his dreams, and most importantly--he’s no longer invisible.

Eventually, Evan is forced to make a decision: Will he give himself over to the fantasy he’s created, or will he bite the bullet and risk losing everything he’s ever wanted? With a fast-paced new score from fresh young songwriting duo Pasek and Paul, (not to mention a few Tony awards), Dear Evan Hansen has become an instant hit among theatergoers everywhere.

Lead Characters


Dear Evan Hansen guide sections