A few nights ago, some of our EPIC Zone Geneva members and staff traded their usual hangout for live theater. The group headed to Cobblestone Arts Center in Farmington to watch Theatre444’s production of Dear Evan Hansen. 

The ride there and back was half the fun, with the group singing show tunes together the whole way. But once the curtain rose, the group was rapt. 

Dear Evan Hansen tells the story of a lonely high schooler who gets caught up in a lie after a classmate’s suicide leads his family to believe Evan was their son’s closest friend. The themes of loneliness hit close to home for our teens and staff, who found them relatable, with the sentiment that “you’re not alone” resonating deeply. Several members mentioned that, like Evan, they turn to journaling to work through their feelings. 

(There was also a unanimous appreciation for the character Connor.)

Occasions like this remind us that making memories and fun are only part of why EPIC Zone programs matter. The meaningful conversations that happen along the way with trusted adults are the type of empowering connections that help teens thrive.