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Carlo Orosa - The Philippine Star
April 2, 2025 | 12:00am
MANILA, Philippines — The critically acclaimed, Tony Award-winning musical “Dear Evan Hansen” is finally coming to the Philippines. GMG Productions recently confirmed that the UK touring production will make its Manila debut in September at The Theatre at Solaire.
“Filipino audiences have been asking for ‘Dear Evan Hansen’ for years, and we’re beyond excited to finally bring this production to Manila,” said Carlos Candal, CEO of GMG Productions. “The story, music and message of ‘Dear Evan Hansen’ resonate deeply with so many people, and we can’t wait for Filipino fans to experience it live.”
Since its Broadway debut in 2016, “Dear Evan Hansen” has captivated audiences with its powerful storytelling, relatable themes and anthemic score. It is widely regarded as one of the most impactful musicals of the 21st century, exploring mental health, identity and the complexities of human connection in the digital age. With its deeply personal narrative and stirring music, the show has resonated with a generation navigating social pressures, loneliness and the search for belonging.
At its heart, “Dear Evan Hansen” tells the story of Evan Hansen, an anxious high school student who suddenly finds himself at the center of a misunderstanding that spirals beyond his control. When a letter he wrote to himself is mistaken for the final words of a classmate, Evan is thrust into the spotlight as he struggles to maintain the illusion of a friendship that never truly existed.
Since its Broadway debut in 2016, ‘Dear Evan Hansen’ has captivated audiences with its powerful storytelling, relatable themes and anthemic score. It is widely regarded as one of the most impactful musicals of the 21st century, exploring mental health, identity and the complexities of human connection in the digital age.
As he deals with the consequences of his choices, he must decide whether to reveal the truth and risk losing everything or embrace the lie that has given him the sense of belonging he always craved.
The show’s themes of mental health and self-acceptance have made it a cultural touchstone. It has sparked important conversations about anxiety, depression and the pressures young people face in an era dominated by social media. Songs like Waving Through a Window and You Will Be Found have become anthems for those who have ever felt alone or unseen.
To date, the musical has won six Tony Awards, including Best Musical, and earned a Grammy for Best Musical Theatre Album.
The musical has enjoyed tremendous success since its original run. To date, it has won six Tony Awards, including Best Musical, and earned a Grammy for Best Musical Theatre Album. In 2019, it premiered on London’s West End, where it won the Olivier Award for Best New Musical. The show’s Broadway and West End productions garnered widespread acclaim, with critics praising its emotional depth, contemporary relevance and the way it gives voice to an often-overlooked struggle.
The UK touring production, which will be staged in Manila, is directed by Adam Penford and produced by ATG Productions, Gavin Kalin Productions and Nottingham Playhouse. Featuring a book by Steven Levenson and music by the Emmy, Grammy, Tony and Oscar-winning duo Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, the new tour offers a fresh perspective on the beloved musical while staying true to its core message.
“Since its premiere, ‘Dear Evan Hansen’ has moved audiences across the globe,” said director Adam Penford. “Evan’s powerful story grips people in a way that feels deeply personal, told through a captivating script and an unforgettable score. With this new UK and international tour, we have the opportunity to revisit its contemporary themes and introduce the show to even more people.”
Meanwhile, critics and audiences worldwide have praised “Dear Evan Hansen” for its emotional depth, powerful storytelling and award-winning score.
The New York Times called it “a breathtaking knockout of a musical,” while The Washington Post described it as “one of the most remarkable shows in musical theater history.”
WhatsOnStage lauded its cast with “voices you could listen to forever,” Birmingham Mail called it “truly breathtaking,” and Nottingham Post declared it “one of the most relevant, compelling, thought-provoking musicals I’ve seen… and also hugely entertaining.”
In addition to its critical success, “Dear Evan Hansen” has also inspired a devoted fanbase worldwide. The musical’s themes of isolation, the need for connection and the power of honesty have struck a chord with audiences of all ages. Beyond the stage, its message has extended into educational initiatives and advocacy efforts, encouraging discussions about mental health in schools and communities.
Now, Filipino theatergoers will have the chance to experience the groundbreaking musical live on stage.
The Manila run of “Dear Evan Hansen” is presented by GMG Productions and will be staged at The Theatre at Solaire. Tickets will go on sale starting April 15 via TicketWorld.
Early access will be available through UnionBank of the Philippines, GMG Productions’ official 2025 season bank sponsor and pre-sale partner, while theatergoers can also sign up for the GMG “Dear Evan Hansen” waitlist at www.gmg-productions.com for exclusive updates. The pre-sale period will run from April 8 to 14.
The UK tour production of “Dear Evan Hansen” is directed by Adam Penford, with set and costume design by Morgan Large, choreography by Carrie-Anne Ingrouille, lighting design by Matt Daw, sound design by Tom Marshall and video design by Ravi Deepres. Musical supervision is by Matt Smith, with musical direction by Michael Bradley. Casting is by Natalie Gallacher CDG for Pippa Ailion and Natalie Gallacher Casting, with Michelle Payne as associate director and Laura Llewellyn-Jones as orchestral manager.
“Dear Evan Hansen” is presented through a special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are supplied by MTI at www.mtishows.com.
For information and updates on upcoming productions, visit www.gmg-productions.com or follow @gmg.productions on social media.
