Theatre

This image released by Grapevine Public Relations shows Stark Sands, center, and the cast during a performance of “& Juliet.” (Matthew Murphy/Grapevine Public Relations via AP)
This image released by Grapevine Public Relations shows Stark Sands, center, and the cast during a performance of “& Juliet.” (Matthew Murphy/Grapevine Public Relations via AP)

Broadway writer of ‘ Juliet’ builds show with huge pop hits

Original story uses ‘Romeo and Juliet’ as launch pad, mixes in biggest pop hits of past few decades

Stephen Chbosky’s “Dear Evan Hansen,” based on the smash stage musical, will be the opening night gala presentation at this year’s Toronto International Film Festival. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Matthew Murphy

‘Dear Evan Hansen’ to open Toronto International Film Festival

Steven Levenson adapted his hit Tony Award-winning stage show with Ben Platt reprising his acclaimed leading role