Live theatre is alive and well in Austin, and the intimacy of ZACH Theatre’s latest production of ‘Somebody Loves You, Mr. Hatch’ is a testament to the power of live performances.

If you’re unfamiliar with the story, the titular Mr. Hatch is a lonely man leading a dull and predictable life — so predictable, in fact that the kid next door has managed to learn his daily routine — until one Valentine’s Day when he receives a note that reads “Somebody loves you” …and everything changes. The journey of emotions that follows is easily enough to bring tears to nearly every eye in the house.

Originally brought to ZACH for the world premiere in 2020, Mr. Hatch is back under the direction of Allen Robertson on The Kleberg, instead of the Whisenhunt Stage while it’s closed for renovations following a flood caused by the snowstorm of 2020. To keep the same level of closeness and atmosphere, The Kleberg is modified to seat guests on all sides.

I was fortunate to catch the show with Stella Frye Ginsberg playing Melanie Todd, the energetic and animated kid-next-door that introduces audiences to the world of Mr. Hatch, and she does an amazing job with bringing the character to life. Throughout the show, she makes it a point to emote with facial expressions that even younger audiences can understand. Paul Sanchez, who ZACH loyals should recognize from playing Bob Crachit in ZACH Theatre’s annual production of ‘A Christmas Carol,’ revisits the role of Mr. Smith, the cheerful newspaper salesman. His vocal talents are a credit to the show's musical numbers, and his comedic timing is great for kids and adults in the audience alike.

One of the roles that doesn’t get enough attention is Amber Quick as Ms. Todd, Melanie’s mom and the owner of the local deli. The role doesn’t necessarily have many strong moments, but where it does thrive is in audience interaction. Quick’s ability to connect with children in the front rows is practically magic. Seeing the look on their faces from something as simple as quip in the moment lets me know the impact she’s making in the role.

As for Mr. Hatch goes, Nathan Jerkins does great with the seemingly simple role. With no lines for what feels like half of the show, much of Jerkins’s performance comes from his demeanor, and he definitely embodies the husk-of-a-man-who-life-has-left-behind aesthetic. When he finally does get the chance to come out of his shell, it’s really captivating. While kids may be surprised at how much he’s able to change, I would wager that adult audiences can relate to the soul crushing monotony of a life in silence, and the difference feeling like somebody cares about — or loves — you can make. And this show’s ability to pull out the empathy of audiences?!?! Bring tissues and thank me later.

Somebody Loves You, Mr. Hatch is at ZACH Theatre until May 22, and tickets start at $15 (Youth) and $21 (Adult) at ZACH’s box office and zachtheatre.org.