'Dear Evan Hansen' on stage now at Forrest Theater in Philadelphia

Friday, August 19, 2022
PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- It's been called "one of the most remarkable shows in musical theater history," and "a game changer that hits you like a shot in the heart."

'Dear Evan Hansen' opened this week at the Forrest Theater. It's a powerful story that reminds us "You Will be Found."
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"There is so much about this show that resonates with so many people," says Coleen Sexton, who plays Heidi Hanson, Evan's mom. "Whether it be a family dealing with grief, or a kid that doesn't fit in at school, or a single mother trying to make it work for her teenage son."

'Dear Evan Hansen' is the winner of six Tony Awards, including Best Musical.

It also won a Grammy for Best Musical Theater album.

The music and lyrics were written by the iconic duo Pasek & Paul, known for their work on 'La La Land' and 'The Greatest Showman.'



Benj Pasek is an Ardmore native and his time at Friends' Central School inspired the show.
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"They crafted such a stunning piece of art, the whole score," says Anthony Norman, who plays Evan Hansen. "It's influenced by the strings, and you never see strings in a Broadway musical pit anymore. The music is its own character. And, my God, it's such a treat to do it."

'Dear Evan Hansen' is at the Shubert Organization's Forrest Theatre through Sunday, August 28.
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