The Book of Mormon is a musical that has captivated audiences since its debut in 2011. Created by Trey Parker, Matt Stone, and Robert Lopez, this theatrical play combines humor, music, and a compelling story, making it a must-watch in contemporary theater. The musical has been praised for its underlying message of compassion, understanding, and the transformative power of belief. Here’s a guide on The Book of Mormon show in New York, discussing its story, cast, music, costumes, set, awards, venue, schedule, duration, music, and reviews.
Story Overview
The Book of Mormon tells the story of two young Mormon missionaries, Elder Kevin Price and Elder Arnold Cunningham, who are sent to a remote village in Uganda to spread the teachings of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The play is both humorous and moving, exploring themes of faith, culture, and personal growth.
Elder Price is an idealistic and ambitious missionary who dreams of being sent to Orlando, Florida. He is confident and dedicated and believes he is destined for greatness. In contrast, Elder Cunningham is socially awkward, prone to telling tall tales, and lacks a strong understanding of The Book of Mormon. Despite their differences, the two are paired together for their mission.
Upon arriving in Uganda, they find a community facing severe hardships, including poverty, disease, and the oppressive rule of a local warlord. The villagers are more concerned with their immediate struggles than with religious teachings. Elder Price’s enthusiasm quickly disappears as he becomes disillusioned by the harsh realities around him. Elder Cunningham, despite his lack of conventional skills, begins to connect with the villagers through his imaginative and unconventional storytelling.
Elder Cunningham starts to combine the teachings of The Book of Mormon with elements of science fiction and fantasy, creating a narrative that resonates with the villagers. This approach, although not entirely accurate, brings hope and a sense of empowerment to the community. As the villagers embrace this new version of the faith, they start to find ways to address their problems and improve their lives.
The story reaches a climax when church leaders visit to see the progress made by the missionaries. They are shocked to discover the altered teachings but ultimately recognize the positive impact on the villagers. The musical ends with a realization that the true essence of their mission is not about strict adherence to religious texts but about offering hope, change, and a sense of community.
Cast Information
The Book of Mormon in New York, being shown at the Eugene O’Neill Theatre, features a talented cast discussed below.
- Kevin Clayas Elder Price
- Cody Jamison Strandas Elder Cunningham
- Kim Exumas Nabulungi
- Stephen Ashfieldas Elder McKinley
- Sterling Jarvisas Mafala Hatimbi
Supporting Cast Members
- Lewis Cleale
- Derrick Williams
- Randy Aaron
- Shanel Bailey
- Casey Barrett
- Graham Bowen
- Isaiah Tyrelle Boyd
- Christian Delcroix
- Daniel Fetter
- Naysh Fox
- Bre Jackson
- Keziah John-Paul
- John K. Kramer
- Ben Laxton
- Terrie Lynne
- Noah Marlowe
- Matthew Marks
- Henry McGinniss
- Stoney B. Mootoo
- Jevares Myrick
- Darius Nichols
- John Eric Parker
- John Pinto Jr.
- Christian Probst
- Jasmin Richardson
- Arbender J. Robinson
Venue Details
The Eugene O’Neill Theatre, located at 230 West 49th Street, New York, NY 10019, is a historic Broadway venue with a seating capacity of 1,108. Renowned for hosting critically acclaimed productions like The Book of Mormon, its intimate setting and elegant architecture offer a memorable theater experience.
Reviews
Critics highlight the show’s ability to blend humor with heartfelt moments, creating a narrative that resonates with audiences. The performances of the cast, particularly the lead actors, have been noted for their charismatic energy.
The audience also praised the contrast between the missionaries’ stark white uniforms and the villagers’ bright clothing showing the cultural differences between the characters. Critics also appreciated the set of The Book of Mormon, designed by Scott Pask. The set includes detailed props that enhance the authenticity of the settings, from books and bicycles used by the missionaries to everyday items found in the village.
While the show’s satirical take on religion has sparked some controversy, most reviews emphasize that its underlying message of compassion and hope provides a meaningful and entertaining experience. Overall, The Book of Mormon show in New York is celebrated as a fresh and innovative addition to Broadway, earning praise for its originality and impact.
Music
The musical score of The Book of Mormon show in New York is renowned for its clever lyrics, catchy melodies, and the way it balances satire with genuine emotion. The orchestrations are by Larry Hochman and Stephen Oremus, with music direction and vocal arrangements by Oremus. The songs are a mix of Broadway-style show tunes, satirical lyrics, and heartfelt melodies, contributing to the musical’s unique charm. Here is a list of the songs.
- “Hello!”— The missionaries introduce themselves and their mission in a cheerful and upbeat door-to-door style.
- “Two by Two”— The missionaries are assigned their mission locations and sing about their excitement and partnership.
- “You and Me (But Mostly Me)”— Elder Price dreams of glory and greatness, envisioning himself as the star missionary.
- “Hasa Diga Eebowai”— The villagers express their frustration and hopelessness in a satirical manner.
- “Turn It Off”— Elder McKinley and the missionaries sing about suppressing negative feelings and doubts with a catchy, tap-dance number.
- “I Am Here for You”— Elder Cunningham comforts Elder Price, pledging his unwavering support and friendship.
- “All-American Prophet”— Elder Price shares the story of Joseph Smith and the origins of The Book of Mormon with the villagers.
- “Sal Tlay Ka Siti”— Nabulungi dreams of a utopian place where she and her people can find peace.
- “Man Up” — Elder Cunningham resolves to step up and take charge, determined to succeed despite his insecurities.
- “Making Things Up Again”— Elder Cunningham fabricates new stories to make the teachings more relatable to the villagers.
- “Spooky Mormon Hell Dream”— Elder Price has a nightmarish vision of hell, filled with his fears and guilt.
- “I Believe”— Elder Price reaffirms his faith with a powerful declaration, determined to convert the villagers.
- “Baptize Me”— Elder Cunningham and Nabulungi sing a humorous and heartfelt duet about the baptism ritual.
- “I Am Africa”— The missionaries, led by Elder McKinley, celebrate their connection to the African continent.
- “Joseph Smith American Moses” — The villagers present their version of the Joseph Smith story, combined with Elder Cunningham’s imaginative additions.
- “Hasa Diga Eebowai (Reprise)”— The villagers revisit their earlier frustrations, now with newfound hope and determination.
- “You and Me (But Mostly Me) (Reprise)”— Elder Price and Elder Cunningham reaffirm their partnership and shared mission.
- “Tomorrow Is a Latter Day”— The cast joins together to celebrate their journey and the promise of a better future.
Awards
The Book of Mormon in NYC theater has received numerous prestigious awards since its debut. It won a total of nine Tony Awards in 2011 as discussed below.
- Best Musical
- Best Book of a Musical
- Best Original Score
- Best Direction of a Musical (Casey Nicholaw and Trey Parker)
- Best Performance by a Featured Actress in a Musical (Nikki M. James)
- Best Scenic Design of a Musical (Scott Pask)
- Best Lighting Design of a Musical (Brian MacDevitt)
- Best Sound Design of a Musical (Brian Ronan)
- Best Orchestrations (Larry Hochman and Stephen Oremus)
The show also received a Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album. Additionally, it won four Drama Desk Awards and four Outer Critics Circle Awards.
Run Length and Schedule
The Book of Mormon in New York runs for approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including one intermission. Performances typically follow a regular weekly schedule, which may vary slightly.
Weekly Schedule
- Tuesday:7:00 PM
- Wednesday: 7:00 PM
- Thursday: 7:00 PM
- Friday:8:00 PM
- Saturday:2:00 PM and 8:00 PM
- Sunday:2:00 PM and 7:00 PM
Food and Beverage Options
The bar at Eugene O’Neill Theatre offers soft drinks, water, wine, beer, and basic mixed drinks, along with a selection of snacks. Both snacks and drinks in closed containers are permitted inside the theater.
