Hull New Theatre – until 22nd March 2025
5*****
Prepare yourselves for ‘Something Incredible!’
“The Book of Mormon,” a musical created by Trey Parker, Matt Stone, and Robert Lopez, premiered in 2011 and has since garnered critical acclaim and numerous awards, including nine Tony Awards. The show is a satirical take on the beliefs and practices of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, following two young Mormon missionaries, Elder Price and Elder Cunningham (played superbly by Adam Bailey and Sam Glen) , as they are sent to Uganda to spread their faith.
At its core, the show explores themes of faith, belief, and the clash of cultures. The musical juxtaposes the idealistic views of the missionaries with the harsh realities faced by the Ugandan villagers, who are dealing with issues such as poverty, disease, and oppression. The humor is often irreverent, tackling sensitive subjects with a perfect mix of satire and sincerity.
This was our second time seeing this show, unlike lots of the audience who did not know what was coming and could be seen with lots of laughing faces mixed with shock! We still found it outrageous but irresistably hilarious, employing a blend of absurdity, shock value, and clever wordplay. The creators are known for their work on “South Park,” and their style is evident throughout the musical. While some may find the humor offensive, others appreciate its boldness and the way it encourages audiences to question their beliefs and assumptions.
The score, composed by Lopez and the creators, features catchy and memorable songs that range from upbeat and comedic to poignant and reflective. Numbers like “Hello,” “Two by Two,” and “Hasa Diga Eebowai” showcase the fantastic talents of the cast and creatives. The choreography and staging are also fabulous, contributing to the overall energy and impact of the production.
Overall, “The Book of Mormon” is a bold, entertaining, and thought-provoking musical, certainly not for the easily offended but ‘I Believe’ is both hysterical and very memorable.