photo by Julieta Cervantes
Which one of The Book of Mormon‘s earworms are you humming after you see the show? Is it “Turn It Off”, suggestion a ‘light switch’ motion to suppress bad feelings? How about “Hasa Diga Eebowai” which raises a middle finger to higher powers? Maybe it’s “Spooky Mormon Hell Dream”…haven’t we all had dreams like that?
Whatever is playing in your head right now, you can thank those witty lyrics on the creators of South Park, Trey Parker and Matt Stone. Their behind this Tony-winner and Broadway history maker, along with Robert Lopez, the co-creator of Avenue Q and Frozen. No wonder The Book of Mormon is just so damn awesome!
The story follows two young missionaries of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as they try to convert the people of a remote Ugandan village. Elder Price (Sam McLellan) is confident, destined to do something incredible, and sticks to the rules. He knows that if he prays for what he wants enough, God will provide. Elder Cunningham is overly enthusiastic, optimistic and a bit clueless. Playing this role is Diego Enrico who perfectly portrays Elder Cunningham and gives off ‘happy to be here’ vibes. This is my fourth time seeing The Book of Mormon, and McLellan and Enrico may have been the best versions of these iconic characters so far. It’s always fun to see the Elders brought to life and how each cast member adds to their personalities. Keke Nesbitt as Nabulingi is a recent graduate of Penn State and making her national tour debut in the show!
As Nesbitt said in our recent interview with her, “I think people really relate to the heart of the show. This idea of everyone coming together from different backgrounds and experiences is always great to see on stage. The show is relatable, joyous, funny, and truly a great time.”
So even though there are some very heavy, dark topics featured in bubbly song and dance throughout the musical – like HIV/AIDS, female genital mutilation, molestation, hunger, murder- this is actually a hilarious show that reminds us to laugh even when it seems impossible to do so. You won’t get struck by lightening if you chuckle at these songs and the storyline.
The Book of Mormon is the winner of nine Tony Awards, including Best Musical, winner of the Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album, and winner of five Drama Desk Awards. It’s the 14th longest running show in Broadway history and still currently playing on Broadway and in London’s West End. Serious business!
Tickets, through October 6th, are available here.
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