Musical in Gmunden

Standing ovations for lovable loner

Scene from the musical "Dear Evan Hansen"(Bild: Konstantin Zander)

Another big hit, but no light fare: the musical spring in Gmunden brings the Broadway hit "Dear Evan Hansen" to the stage for the first time in Austria. The production by Markus Olzinger with Denis Riffel in the leading role received rapturous applause!

After "Letters from Ruth" last year, this year Musical Frühling Gmunden takes on "Dear Evan Hansen" by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul. A strong ensemble under the direction of artistic director Markus Olzinger brings the award-winning musical, which deals with mental health and suicidal thoughts of young people, to the stage in a gentle yet entertaining way.

What is it about?
Young Evan Hansen, who suffers from an anxiety disorder and therefore has no friends, is unable to approach his flame Zoe. There's also his arm in a cast, which nobody wants to sign. Evan's therapist advises him to write himself positive letters. When Zoe's brother Connor steals one and takes his own life shortly afterwards, new fears and lies arise.

Dennis Riffel (Evan Hansen) and Jelle Wijgergangs (Connor Murphy)(Bild: Konstantin Zander)

Savio Byrczak (Jared Kleinman) and ensemble(Bild: Konstantin Zander)

Loner gets going
The role of Evan Hansen is played by Denis Riffel, who last wowed audiences as Berger in "Hair" at the Salzburg Landestheater. His Evan is a loser who avoids eye contact, kneads his sweaty palms, attracts bullying - and always means well. At first, he is briefly alienated from the shy loner, but quickly becomes fully involved with the character, which earns him a standing ovation.

Musically, the piece is convincing after a start-up phase thanks to good vocal performances, which produce captivating pop numbers. The faded Connor as Evan's shadow (Jelle Wijgergangs) and Michaela Thurner as his sister and Evan's girlfriend Zoe stand out in particular. The production will be performed in Gmunden in April and can be seen at the Stadttheater Fürth from the fall.

"Dear Evan Hansen": Further performances on 23-24 March, 1, 6, 7, 13, 14, 19, 21 April at the Stadttheater Gmunden.

The suicide prevention portal of the Ministry of Health offers help for people with suicidal thoughts and their relatives. Contact details for support facilities in Austria can be found at www.suizid-praevention.gv.at. Information for young people can be found at www.bittelebe.at)