Western Illinois University Theatre and Dance will present the contemporary musical Dear Evan Hansen at the Hainline Theatre in Browne Hall in Macomb, with five performances scheduled from Oct. 29 through Nov. 1.
Performances will be held at 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, Oct. 29-31, and at 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 31 and Nov. 1.
The musical is based on the book by Steven Levenson. According to WIU's Theatre and Dance season listing, the production features music and lyrics by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul and is directed by Hadley Kamminga-Peck.
The university describes the show as a story about a lonely teenager whose attempt to fit in spirals into a lie that brings him connection, compassion and heartbreak. As the truth unravels, Evan must confront the consequences of his choices and learn what it means to be seen and belong.
A director quoted in the WIU release said productions with themes like Dear Evan Hansen let students hold a mirror up to their own struggles. "They are holding a mirror up to their own quiet struggles, finding their way in the messy world of growing up and learning that it is okay to be seen, even if you are a hot mess," the release states. "I hope that they understand that it's okay not to be okay all the time. This is how we learn and grow."
Tickets and information
Tickets are available at westernpresents.com. According to WIU's box office listing, tickets can also be purchased by calling 309-298-2900 or in person at the WIU Box Office in the Hainline Lobby.
For more information on WIU's Theatre and Dance programs, visit wiu.edu/cofac/theatre.
Source: the original release