The highly anticipated production of the Olivier, Tony, and Grammy award-winning musical “Dear Evan Hansen” is set to take the stage at New Theatre Oxford this November. From Tuesday 26th November until Saturday 30th November, audiences will be captivated by the poignant story of Evan Hansen, a high school student grappling with anxiety and the complexities of fitting in.
The Story of Evan Hansen
“Dear Evan Hansen” follows the journey of Evan, an anxious teenager desperate to fit in. In his quest for acceptance, Evan fabricates a story that spirals out of control, leading him to confront the reality of his actions and their impact on those around him. This heartfelt narrative addresses themes of identity, mental health, and the longing for connection, resonating deeply with audiences worldwide.
Innovative Audition Process
In an innovative move, the casting team collaborated with TikTok to discover new talent. Aspiring performers were invited to submit videos of themselves singing any song from the show, resulting in over 2000 submissions. From these, 36 TikTok users were selected for in-person auditions, with Sonny Monaghan ultimately cast in the ensemble and as alternate Evan, performing the role twice a week during matinee performances.
Meet the Cast
The production boasts an impressive cast featuring seasoned performers and rising stars:
- Ryan Kopel as Evan Hansen: Known for his roles in “Newsies” and “West Side Story,” Ryan brings a wealth of experience to the iconic role of Evan.
- Lauren Conroy as Zoe Murphy: Lauren’s credits include “Into The Woods” and “The Sound of Music,” showcasing her versatility and talent.
- Alice Fearn as Heidi Hansen: Alice has starred in West End hits like “Wicked” and “Come From Away,” earning acclaim for her powerful performances.
- Helen Anker as Cynthia Murphy: With a career spanning West End and Broadway productions, Helen brings depth and nuance to her roles.
- Richard Hurst as Larry Murphy: Richard’s extensive theatre experience includes performances with the RSC and National Theatre.
- Killian Thomas Lefevre as Connor Murphy: Known for his roles in “Bat Out of Hell” and “Stick Man,” Killian adds intensity to the cast.
- Tom Dickerson as Jared Kleinman: Tom’s credits include “Heathers” and “The Book of Mormon,” highlighting his comedic and dramatic range.
- Vivian Panka as Alana Beck: Vivian has starred in “Heathers: The Musical” and “9 to 5 The Musical,” showcasing her dynamic presence.
Ensemble Cast
This production marks the first UK performance of “Dear Evan Hansen” to feature an ensemble cast, adding depth and dimension to the storytelling. The ensemble includes Lara Beth-Sas, Will Forgrave, Daniel Forrester, Jessica Lim, Sonny Monaghan, and Shakira Simpson, all bringing their unique talents to the stage.
Director’s Vision
Director Adam Penford expressed his excitement about the talented cast, stating, “I am beyond thrilled with the talented cast we have assembled. An exciting mix of musical theatre legends and rising stars. It’s been nine years since the original show premiered, and it’s an honour to be the first production to reimagine this powerful story through a contemporary lens.”
Partnership with The Mix
In a meaningful collaboration, the production has partnered with The Mix, the UK’s leading digital charity for under 25-year-olds. This partnership aims to provide support and resources for anyone affected by the issues explored in the show, ensuring a positive impact beyond the theatre.
Ticket Information
Don’t miss your chance to see “Dear Evan Hansen” at New Theatre Oxford. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit ATG Tickets.
Cast Biographies
Ryan Kopel: Ryan’s theatre credits include “Newsies” at Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre, “The Book Of Mormon” at the Prince of Wales Theatre, and “West Side Story” at the Edinburgh International Festival. His television work includes HBO’s “House of the Dragon.”
Lauren Conroy: Lauren has appeared in “Into The Woods” at Bath Theatre Royal, “The Sound of Music” at the Chichester Festival Theatre, and Apple TV’s “The Buccaneers.”
Alice Fearn: Alice’s notable roles include “Come From Away” and “Wicked” in the West End. Her film credits include “Les Misérables” and “Alice In Wonderland.”
Helen Anker: Helen has performed in “Mamma Mia!” internationally, “Cats” in the West End, and “Promises Promises” on Broadway.
Richard Hurst: Richard’s theatre credits include “The Duchess of Malfi” at the RSC and “My Night With Reg” at the Apollo Theatre.
Killian Thomas Lefevre: Killian has starred in “The Strange Affair of Herschel Grynszpan” and “Bat Out of Hell.”
Tom Dickerson: Tom’s roles include “Heathers” and “The Book of Mormon.”
Vivian Panka: Vivian has appeared in “Heathers: The Musical” and the UK tour of “9 to 5 The Musical.”
Sonny Monaghan: Sonny’s credits include “Turn the Page” and “TAG Live.”
Lara Beth-Sas: Lara has performed in “Jack and the Beanstalk” and “Treasure Island.”
Will Forgrave: Will’s theatre work includes “The Sound of Music” and “Oliver.”
Daniel Forrester: Daniel’s credits include “Opening Night” and “Ain’t Too Proud.”
Jessica Lim: Jessica has starred in “Shrek The Musical” and “Zorro The Musical.”
Shakira Simpson: Shakira’s roles include “Hairspray” and “The Lion King.”
The 2024 UK tour of “Dear Evan Hansen” promises to be an unforgettable theatrical experience, blending powerful performances with a contemporary reimagining of this beloved musical. With a stellar cast, innovative direction, and meaningful partnerships, this production is set to make a profound impact on audiences across the UK. Be sure to secure your tickets and witness the magic of “Dear Evan Hansen” live on stage.
Dear Evan Hansen UK Tour Dates
The “Dear Evan Hansen” musical tour is set to take place across the UK in 2024 and 2025. Here are the full tour dates and locations:
2024
- Nottingham Playhouse: 9 – 28 September
- Leicester Curve: 1 – 5 October
- Theatre Royal Brighton: 15 – 19 October
- Birmingham Alexandra: 22 – 26 October
- New Victoria Theatre, Woking: 29 October – 2 November
- Leeds Grand Theatre: 5 – 9 November
- Liverpool Empire: 12 – 16 November
- Sunderland Empire: 19 – 23 November
- Oxford New Theatre: 26 – 30 November
2025
- Northampton Derngate: 14 – 18 January
- Mayflower Theatre, Southampton: 21 – 25 January
- Milton Keynes Theatre: 28 January – 1 February
- Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury: 4 – 8 February
- Bristol Hippodrome: 11 – 15 February
- Palace Theatre, Manchester: 18 – 22 February
- King’s Theatre, Glasgow: 25 February – 1 March
- His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen: 4 – 8 March
- Grand Opera House, Belfast: 11 – 15 March
- Storyhouse Theatre, Chester: 18 – 22 March
- New Wimbledon Theatre, London: 25 – 29 March
- Wolverhampton Grand: 1 – 5 April
- Lyceum Theatre, Sheffield: 8 – 12 April
- Theatre Royal, Plymouth: 15 – 19 April
- Hull New Theatre: 22 – 26 April
- Wales Millennium Centre: 29 April – 3 May
- Theatre Royal, Norwich: 13 – 17 May
