For one lucky TikTok user, the platform has helped him to land his “dream” role in a UK production of the Broadway hit musical Dear Evan Hansen. Sonny Monaghan, from East Sussex, shared his audition tape on the social media site which attracted thousands of views. The hit musical’s production company had launched a nationwide search for new talent to take part in its forthcoming UK tour. While some accused it of being a “publicity gimmick”, the producers insisted it was aimed at opening up opportunities to a wider range of people.
Director Adam Penford explained that the team wanted to “democratise the process” and encourage those who may not have an agent or formal drama school training to participate. Sonny was one of nearly 2,000 applicants, of whom fewer than 2% were invited to audition. The final 36 participants included Thomas Fage, a 19-year-old student who was particularly grateful to have been given the opportunity to audition in a professional setting.
While some have criticised the use of social media platforms in casting and have accused producers of exploiting aspiring actors, Sonny is thrilled to have got his big break. He says the role of Evan Hansen is one he’s always wanted and while the auditioning process was “nerve-wracking”, he’s excited to take on the challenge of the part. Adam Penford has indicated that he would consider using TikTok and other social media platforms to cast for suitable roles in future productions, praising the accessibility it offers and the level of submissions from “so much talent”.
The UK production of Dear Evan Hansen, which is still in rehearsals, is the first staging of the show outside the US. Its creators, Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, have recently had another hit with the music for the Hollywood film, The Greatest Showman. Their response to the TikTok auditions has been supportive, with Pasek commenting that it’s “wonderful to see people putting their hearts and souls into performances.” Dear Evan Hansen is one of the most popular musicals in recent years, winning four Tony Awards in 2017, including Best Musical
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