Idaho State University Announces 2026 Farm Bureau Summer Theatre Production: “Dear Evan Hansen”

ISU is among the first educational or amateur organizations in the country granted rights to produce the show, following its recent release. Auditions for the production will be held March 30 and 31, and are open to community members and ISU students.

Theatre Department Chair and Artistic Director Tara Young says the opportunity to bring this groundbreaking musical to Southeast Idaho is both rare and deeply meaningful.

“What excites me most is the opportunity to bring a contemporary, deeply human story to our community for the first time,” Young said. “This is one that speaks directly to the world we’re living in right now. ‘Dear Evan Hansen’ explores connection, loneliness, and the desire to belong–themes that resonate across generations. Producing this show through the support of Farm Bureau and ISU allows us to combine a powerful, modern score with the heart of a community production, creating something both intimate and impactful.”

Young encourages anyone who feels drawn to the story to audition, regardless of prior experience.

“‘Dear Evan Hansen’ offers rich, nuanced roles and values authenticity above all else,” she said. “This production is about honest storytelling, not perfection. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or returning to the stage after some time away, this is a welcoming environment where your voice and perspective matter. If you’re ready to challenge yourself and be part of something special, we would love to see you.”

Young also emphasized why the story carries particular weight for Southeast Idaho audiences.

“On a personal level, I believe this story resonates because it reflects experiences many of us have had but don’t always talk about–feeling unseen, wanting to belong, and trying to do the right thing even when it’s complicated,” she said. “In Southeast Idaho, we pride ourselves on being a close-knit community, and this show asks us to look at how we care for one another, especially when someone is struggling. I think audiences here will connect to the emotional journey of the characters and be reminded that small acts of kindness and empathy can make a real difference.”

Local public health leaders echo the importance of bringing this story to the stage. Maggie Mann, District Director for Southeastern Idaho Public Health, shared her support for the production and its themes.

“We need to make it safe and normal to talk about our mental health–things like anxiety, loneliness, and depression, as well as suicide prevention,” Mann said. “This important work of art tackles these issues, which for many people are made worse by things like social media, head-on. We are so grateful to Idaho State University’s Theater Department for offering ‘Dear Evan Hansen.’”

“Dear Evan Hansen” is based on the Tony-winning book by Steven Levenson, with music and lyrics by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul. The musical has been celebrated worldwide for its emotional depth, contemporary sound, and powerful message of connection and understanding.

The 2026 summer production is made possible through the continued support of the Farm Bureau Mutual Insurance Company of Idaho, the title sponsor of ISU’s Summer Theatre.

More information about auditions, tickets, and summer programming will be announced in the coming weeks.

“Dear Evan Hansen” is presented at Idaho State University through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).