Review: The Book of Mormon

 by Lorcan Bonser-Wilton

Over February half term, my Dad and I took an incredibly enjoyable trip to see The Book of Mormon in Southampton on its UK tour. He had bought tickets in November 2019, but due to the pandemic they were moved. However, after 2 COVID cancellations, a destructive storm and mass train cancellations on the day of performance, we did manage to see it. And what a show it was! The gloriously offensive brainchild of South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone, it tells the story of two Mormon missionaries who must travel to a remote village in Uganda to convert the locals. 

Overall, the production value of the show was very high. The set was simple, but effective in portraying the various environments in the show, from a tattered village in Uganda, to the very depths of Mormon hell. The lighting choices were excellent; at times (such as the act 1 finale) they became rather overwhelming, but were rather a spectacle to say the least! 

Returning to the show itself, it is known for being rude. Incredibly rude. I must say, even as a fan of the music from the show, However, the sheer hilarity of the lewd and rude lyrics shocked even me. Other than that, the choreography of the show surprised me. It was honestly incredible, particularly that of the Mormon missionaries, who danced with incredible dexterity and quality not seen in all shows. This came to light in The Book of Mormon’s flashy showbiz-like number ‘Turn It Off’, complete with a rather incredible costume change! 

The cast was also brilliant. Elder Price, played by Robert Colvin, had a similarly superb singing and dancing ability, and portrayed the often distinctly unlikeable character with flair and finesse. His counterpart, Elder Cunningham, played by Connor Peirson, was an impressive singer, and in addition portrayed such an oddball character with the care and precision required. Other cast members of note include Leanne Robinson (who played the character of Nabulungi with tenderness and innocence) and Steven Webb (who portrayed the homosexually repressed character of Elder McKinley with a great degree of both humour and humility). 

Overall, at its core, The Book of Mormon is a brilliantly silly and goofy show, and I wholeheartedly recommend it to fans of theatre and South Park alike! However, be warned: do not go if you are easily offended - it targets everyone