It should be immediately noted that The Book of Mormon Musical is not a factual retelling of the original Mormon text, nor is it created to pay homage to the religion itself, in fact one could argue it does exactly the opposite. Brought to you by the creators of South Park, The Book of Mormon is a comedy musical designed to poke fun and indulge one’s dark humour needs.
We follow the mission taken by two Mormon’s from the Latter-Day Saints Church who have embarked on their quest to convert the world into the all American religion that is Mormonism. Elder Price believes he is set to do great things, to change the world and to go to Orlando…..? His main issue now is that he’s been coupled up a pathological liar who hasn’t even read the book and instead of Orlando they are going to Uganda, Africa. Through incredibly catchy songs with even more so questionable lyrics we are taken a journey through religion, friendship, love and self-discovery. Are we the main characters in our own stories? Or have our lives been a complete and utter lie? Is the funny little Star Wars fanatic the true lead in this story? Did Joseph Smith really die of dysentery?
The comedy is definitely the leading force of the show, boundaries are certainly crossed, and it would be unlikely to see the show without at least a couple of audience members walking out due to a joke that went a little too far for them or simply down to them thinking that the show is truly for religious purpose. At the end of the day however the show is very cleverly written to take the mickey out of everyone involved not just the Mormons. Whilst it could be argued that the depiction of the African locals also toes the line, it is less so an accurate depiction of African people and more so a caricature of what a first world country (America)thinks a third world country would be like, emphasizing the American hero complex and the need to ‘save’ these people. We also get a good look into the power of religion; how idiotic it can be but also its purpose and what it can actually do for people.
The music is bouncy, fun and very American. Each song is performed with bounds of energy and there are plenty of “wait did he just say what I think he did?” moments, as to be expected from the creators of South Park and Avenue Q. The characters are also well written and fleshed out. Adam Bailey’s Elder Price is confident, charismatic and the perfect level of egotistical and annoying. We don’t hate the character, but we also do not sympathize with him until we are supposed to. Sam Glen is a bundle of joy and energy as Elder Cunningham and has the audience eating out of the palm of his hand from his very first entrance. Encapsulating the character presented by original cast member Josh Gad, Glen has impeccable character timings and vocal skill. New Comer Nyah Nish also stands out amongst the crowd as Nabulungi, her rendition of Sal Tlay Ka Siti is one of the best I have heard, she commands the stage with vocals that almost seem effortless to her yet would be incredibly challenging to most. This is an incredible cast all together without a single weak link.
Overall, this is a very fun musical but not for those who are easily offended. The satire is belly laugh inducing and the set is colourful and camp. This is adult musical theatre at its finest with a very talented cast and creative team and a cracking script. From the singing and acting, to the lighting and tech I could not fault a single thing in this production. I’m not saying you should convert yourself into Mormonism, but this is sure to become one of your favourite cult musicals.
Reviewer: Beth Eltringham
Reviewed: 16th October 2024
North West End UK Rating: