Astonishing, exhilarating and intoxicating. There aren’t enough superlatives that can capture the essence of Dear Evan Hansen.

On its current tour at The Alexandra, the show is a beautiful masterpiece that leaves you both broken and uplifted, and at once eager to watch it all over again.

The story follows socially anxious teenager Evan Hansen, whose letter to himself is mistaken for a classmate’s suicide note.

The small misunderstanding spirals into community-wide lie, as Evan finds himself adopted by the boy’s family and finding popularity at last, only to see it all crash around him.

Although it sounds bleak, Dear Evan Hansen tackles serious themes with sensitivity, weaving humour and heartbreak into a highly original production exploring mental health, the power of social media and the need for human connection.

The story is a real emotional rollercoaster, with exceptional performances drawing audiences into Evan's increasingly complex world of lies.

We immediately feel great empathy for Evan, who is clearly struggling as an outsider. As his lies unravel the tension rises, literally leaving you on the edge of your seat.

Ryan Copel is simply incredible in the role of Evan, with an endearing performance and enviable vocal prowess. It’s fair to say I haven’t had goosebumps in the theatre for years, until last night. Lauren Conroy is a formidable yet vulnerable Zoe, whilst Tom Dickerson provides generous comedic relief as Jared.

The original score is fantastic, featuring memorable melodies that burrow into your consciousness, such as the outstanding You Will Be Found and For Forever, brought to life by a talented live band. If some become earworms, then that’s perfectly ok.

The modern staging, which features a minimalist set, projections, and intimate moments with broader social commentary, perfectly captures the modern world we live in, and it’s easy to see why this show resonates with a younger audience, who packed out the theatre on its opening night in Birmingham.

Go and see Dear Evan Hansen, and You Will Be Found, albeit whilst laughing and crying your way through. This one definitely lives up to the hype.

A well-deserved standing ovation for an unforgettable show.

Five stars

Dear Evan Hansen was reviewed by Fiona McCartney on Tuesday 17 June at Birmingham theatre The Alexandra, where it shows until this Saturday 21 June.