★★★★☆
I’m well-versed in the world of South Park because my husband is very fond of showing me segments as though they’re instructional videos on how to live your life. And I’d heard of The Book of Mormon musical, but at first, I didn’t know that it’s written by the show’s creators, Matt Stone and Trey Parker (as well as non-South Park creatives Robert Lopez and Casey Nicholaw).
After watching this irreverent, very funny and crude take on Mormonism last night at the opening night in Perth, the connection to South Park is definitely apparent.
The Book of Mormon, as the name suggests, shines a spotlight on the absurdities of Mormonism, but also, one might surmise, on never questioning what you’re told. While it’s true it could be construed as mean-spirited towards Mormons, it remains relatively light-hearted, while also simultaneously tackling larger issues.
While I wouldn’t suggest that those of the Mormon church see this, for the rest of us, the subject matter does lend itself to a great deal of hilarity. Whether rightly or wrongly, the perfectly pressed suits, pristinely coiffed hair and holier-than-thou attitudes do suggest an air of superiority. And we know that, wherever implied superiority exists, someone making fun of it is sure to follow.
It’s under these ripe circumstances that The Book of Mormon was created, turning the sing-song evangelicalism of Mormons knocking on doors, saying ‘hello’ melodically and going on mission trips to far-flung parts of the globe into a musical.
First performed in 2011 and delighting viewers since, The Book of Mormon is a nine-time Tony Award winning musical that has been praised by The New York Times, The Washington Post and Entertainment Weekly.
As to this Australian production, albeit a world away from Salt Lake City, the cast is amazing, and the costumes and sets far more exciting than the bland Elders’ uniforms or Mormon buildings I was expecting.
Sure, a lot of the performance is crisp white shirts and black trousers, but there are also sparkly vests, angelic ensembles and the colourful outfits of the Ugandan people. The costume designer, Ann Roth, and scenic designer, Scott Pask, are to be commended.
Set design-wise, we are treated to scenes ranging from Orlando to Africa to the depths of hell, all framed by the stained-glass windows of the Mormon church.
Musically, there are many hits. Songs such as You and Me (But Mostly Me), Turn it Off, All-American Prophet, Man Up, I Believe, I Am Africa and Joseph Smith American Moses, to name but a few, all delighted audiences.
Music Director/Vocal Arranger/Co-Orchestrator Stephen Oremus and Co-Orchestrator Larry Hochman have done a phenomenal job. Not only are the songs sung with aplomb, but they are also really funny, making them memorable beyond the curtains closing.
But a musical would be nothing, as we know, without the characters to inhabit its world, sing its songs, dance its dances and entertain audiences. All of the Elders do an excellent job of portraying ecclesiastical zeal, and the two stars, Elder Price (Sean Johnston) and Elder Cunningham (Nick Cox), are particularly good at convincing us they are on fire for the Lord.
Paris Leveque is hilarious as Nabulungi, and Augie Tchantcho, although not getting much time on stage, is excellent as the General. The entire cast is incredibly talented, and do well not to giggle or laugh throughout!
If you love comedic musicals that pull at the threads of topics it feels naughty to even address, this is the musical for you.
While Mormonism might not be a microcosm for Australian society like it is American society, there’s still enough cultural recognition and universal themes to make it an absurdly hilarious and even thought-provoking show. But if you don’t agree, I might have to darken your doorway to convert you!
The Book of Mormon runs in Perth to 6 December at the Crown Theatre, Great Eastern Hwy, Burswood WA 6100.
It then tours to Adelaide as the final stop on the tour, see full dates below.
Tickets: https://thebookofmormonmusical.com.au/tickets/perth/
Website: https://thebookofmormonmusical.com.au/
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/bookofmormonaunz/
Photo credits: Daniel Boud
2026 Australian Tour Remaining Dates:
Perth on now to 6 December, Crown Theatre
Adelaide from 19 December, Festival Theatre
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