The Power of First Encounters: How ‘Dear Evan Hansen’ Transformed 540 Young Lives

Written By Abbey White

At theatre works!, we believe that access to live theatre can be life-changing, especially for young people experiencing it for the very first time. Thanks to the support of our grant programme, 540 students from across Miami had the opportunity to attend a powerful production of Dear Evan Hansen, performed by Actors’ Playhouse Productions.

For many, this was more than just a school trip. It was a moment of discovery.

Breaking Barriers to the Arts

An incredible 50% of students attending had never experienced live theatre before. For these young people, stepping into the auditorium wasn’t just about watching a performance, it was about entering a completely new world.

Through the grant, students from:

  • Coral Gables High School

  • HIVE Prep

  • Miami Jackson Senior High

  • Coral Way K-8 Center

were able to access an experience that may otherwise have been out of reach.

A Story That Resonated Deeply

Dear Evan Hansen explores themes of identity, belonging, mental health, and connection, topics that strongly resonate with young audiences today.

Feedback collected through pre- and post-show surveys revealed a powerful shift:

  • Students reported feeling more confident discussing mental health

  • Many expressed a strong emotional connection to the characters

  • Others described feeling ‘seen,’ ‘understood,’ and ‘less alone’

The authenticity of the story opened doors for meaningful conversations, both in and beyond the classroom.

Students were asked what moments of the musical stayed with them:

‘I started crying when ‘Evan’ said that he didn’t have anyone that spoke to him or knew the real him.’ - Student

‘When someone tries talking to me, I’ll take more time and give my attention to them. It could be a cry for help.’ - Student

‘…care for people before judging them because they could be going through things.’ - Student

More Than a Performance

The impact didn’t end when the curtain fell.

Teachers and chaperones noted that the experience:

  • Sparked ongoing classroom discussions

  • Encouraged empathy and peer support

  • Inspired creative reflection through writing and art

Why This Matters

Live theatre has a unique ability to bring stories to life in a way that is immediate, human, and unforgettable. For first-time attendees especially, it can ignite a lifelong interest in the arts and open up new ways of thinking.

This theatre trip is a clear example of how access, made possible through theatre works! funding can:

  • Broaden horizons

  • Build confidence

  • Foster emotional understanding

  • Create lasting memories

Looking Ahead

We are incredibly proud to have supported this experience. Help us support more theatre trips like this by donating to our mission.

To donate from the UK visit: https://www.theatreworks.global/support

To donate from the US visit: https://www.theatreworks.global/us-donations

We remain committed to ensuring that more young people, regardless of background, can experience the magic and impact of live theatre.

Abbey White
Next

A Trip Down the Rabbit Hole: How a Theatre Visit Sparked Curiosity, Confidence and Creativity