Ben Platt in ‘Dear Evan Hansen’ At Arena Stage

So you might not want to admit that the reason you’re jonesing to see Arena Stage’s newest play — Dear Evan Hansen — is because you’re in love with Pitch Perfect’s Ben Platt.  (It’s ok.  We are, too.)  He’s oh-so-good at playing that nerd who wins your heart.  And this Evan Hansen role is no exception.

But after Platt lures you into your theatre seat, you’ll realize that this musical is a generational must.  Its an ode to anti-bullying, to looking up from your computer screen and into your life, and most of all to “manning up” and telling the truth — nomatter how hard that might be.

Evan Hansen might finally have the life he’s always dreamed of…  if he can just keep the biggest lie he’s ever told under wraps.  The girl of his dreams, the perfect family, and the chance to fit in are within reach — but all because he’s holding in a secret, and the lies just keep getting larger.   And how can you talk yourself out of that?!

Today’s modern world can be daunting, but Arena Stage’s Dear Evan Hansen moves us to think more about our relationships than retweeting, sharing, or liking.  It forces us to actively engage with our feelings of right and wrong and into a true connection with others.

Dear Evan Hansen continues at Arena Stage through August 23rd.