The Book Of Mormon at Eugene O'Neill Theatre

Launching in 2011, The Book of Mormon has undoubtedly been one of the most successful Broadway musicals since its opening. Conceptualized by Trey Parker, Matt Stone, and Robert Lopez, the musical is based on the Latter-day Saints (LDS) founder and prophet Joseph Smith complete with his Book of Mormon. The show was intended to premiere off Broadway at the NYC Theatre workshop after its 2008 staged reading, though this turned out to be a blessing in disguise as its actual premiere in 2011 moved to a more prominent location at the Eugene O’Neill Theatre.

Because of a successful first year, the play was already approved for a U.S. national tour that lasted four years, including a run in Salt Lake City, Utah, which marked the first time it would be performed there. The show also carried on to be staged in several locations, with a Chicago production produced in 2012, a West End production in 2013, and Australian and European productions both produced in 2017.

The story and execution of this musical were key elements to this success. It tells the story of Elder Kevin Price and Elder Arnold Cunningham, two Mormon missionaries who prepare to spread their religion in a remote village in Uganda. It is there that they struggle with the indifference of the locals, as well as their contrasting methods in preaching their faith, given that Cunningham lies to the villagers by tacking on fictional parts from science fiction and fantasy stories into his religious teachings, while Price is bent on teaching the villagers in the usual, orthodox manner. The way the Book of Mormon is shared with the audience is told in quite an unorthodox manner as well, usually making fun of religion in its script and also injecting humor in both of its acts, and of course, let's not forget the showtunes!

For its current run, the Book of Mormon will be in New York in October at the central theatre venue of Eugene O'Neill Theatre, which holds an second to none stage, sound system and acoustics, and unrivaled facilities that is fit for this word-class show. Tickets for the musical on Tuesday 29th October 2024 are available for purchase by using the link above.