Dear Evan Hansen Returns to LA at the Ahmanson

“Dear Evan Hansen,” the winner of six Tony Awards including Best Musical, is now playing through July 31 at the Ahmanson Theatre. The production returns to the Ahmanson following a sold out run in 2018.

The twisting story about the search for acceptance, in both the teenage and adult world, begins strongly with Evan Hansen’s first number, “Waving Through a Window.” The strong sense of being “on the outside always looking in,” is conveyed throughout the lyrics and sets the tone for the rest of the musical. Following his therapist and mother’s (Coleen Sexton) advice, Evan writes letters of encouragement to himself and after printing one out it lands in the hands of Connor Murphy (Nikhil Saboo), also a troubled student.

Shortly after Connor commits suicide, the letter is found and mistaken for a suicide note addressed to Evan. A combination of misunderstandings fueled by Evan’s love for Zoe (Alaina Anderson), Connor’s sister; his need for acceptance; attention from Connor’s wealthy parents (John Hemphill and Lili Thomas) and instant social media fame resulting from his participation (with Alana Beck played by Micaela Lamas) in “The Connor Project,” a campaign to bring awareness about teen suicide.

Michael Greif’s direction and Benj Pasek and Justin Paul’s score provides several touching numbers including “To Break in a Glove,” “You Will Be Found,” and “Only Us.” Scenic design by David Korins, including images of social media screens where dialogue occurs via technology, adds to the atmosphere of isolation.

Outstanding vocals and acting, along with a memorable score, make “Dear Evan Hansen” worth a trip downtown.

Now playing at The Ahmanson Theatre, 135 N. Grand Avenue. Tuesday – Friday, 8pm; Saturday at 2pm and 8pm and Sunday at 1 and 6:30pm. Tickets $40 to $189 available at www.centerTheatreGroup.org or 213.972.4400.