Dear Evan Hansen to be turned into a film?
© Matthew Murphy
Reports say that the film rights to Tony Award-winning musical Dear Evan Hansen have been sold, with preparations being made for a screen adaptation.
With music and lyrics by duo Benj Pasek and Justin Paul (who also created the songs for The Greatest Showman), the piece first opened in Washington in July 2015 before having its Broadway premiere in December 2016. It went on to win six Tony Awards, including Best Musical and Best Original Score.
The hit musical is based on the life of Evan Hansen, who feigns friendship with a missing classmate to gain popularity. It explores the modern day nature of social anxiety, with numbers including "For Forever", "Waving Through A Window" and "You Will Be Found".
It was recently announced that the show would have its UK premiere at the Noël Coward Theatre from 12 November, with the cast to be confirmed.
According to the reports from Deadline, the rights were bought by Universal Pictures, with Stephen Chbosky (Wonder) lined up to direct. It's unknown whether or not Ben Platt (who originated the titular role) will return.
Dates for the film are to be announced.
