By Katrina “Kat” Reynolds
DEAR EVAN HANSEN presented by The Carnegie through June 28th. I attended the Opening Saturday matinee performance.
As its 2026 season opener, The Carnegie presents Dear Evan Hansen with Book by Steven Levenson and Music and Lyrics by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul. The Tony Award-winning musical is an important social commentary on how each of us can feel isolated, alone, and invisible in the seemingly non-stop bustling world we must navigate each day.
Director Joe Bertucci leads this production with an appropriately sensitive POV. Pacing is flawless and use of the playing space is thoughtful and purposeful. Scenic and Media Design by Tyler Gabbard (with assistance on the Media portion from Angel Hardy) are both nothing short of perfection. Mr. Gabbard has a keen understanding of how to best use The Carnegie’s stage and I fail to be impressed each time his hand is involved. He along with Mr. Hardy found the perfect symmetry of “screen time” and it pays off.
Music Direction by Jacob Priddy is impressively strong. Mr. Priddy has been able to create a beautiful symphony of voices and instruments alike with the ideal balance between them. Much deserved shout-out to the band of talented musicians who helped to bring Evan Hansen’s world to life; they execute this excellent score beautifully.
Further credit to Mr. Bertucci for putting together a wonderfully mighty and cohesive ensemble of performing artists. Their chemistry is palpable and each actor truly gives it their “all”. I am hard-pressed to mention certain individuals above another but this is a review, after all. Denise Devlin (who plays Cynthia Murphy) graces The Carnegie stage once more after a long absence and we should all thank the Deities for it. Ms. Devlin is a consummate professional with a true understanding of her character’s role in this story. Sean Young excels in his portrayal of Connor Murphy, a role I daresay has some of the most fun. Mr. Young vacillates between brooding teen and caricature musical theatre narration with seemingly no effort. Not to be outdone by her stage sibling, Hannah Grace Ervin is a shining light as Zoe. Her voice is clear and lovely and her handle on the character’s arc is spot-on.
Finally, Tommy Sanders is exquisite as Evan Hansen. Playing the titular character is certainly a massive undertaking, but Mr. Sanders is the right man for the job. It is clear he gives in to the emotional journey and we see a very real, very raw human before our very eyes. Even while wrought with sentiment, he delivers impeccable vocals and character representation. Mr. Sanders’ use of his instrument is a master class in musicality and there is no doubt he will continue to impress audiences. Bravo!
While most of you know musicals are not my preference, a good musical is a special thing. Dear Evan Hansen has memorable songs, relatable stories, and wonderful visuals. On top of being a transparent look at how our hunger for acknowledgement can sometimes lead to poor choices, it is entertaining and free from judgement. No one is lauded for doing the wrong thing and it allows some grace to those who err which is something the world doesn’t offer us as easily. Even through painful topics, Dear Evan Hansen is fantastic art and well worth the trip to NKY to enjoy it.
Click here for more information about the production.
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