The Book of Mormon on Broadway

Why does society flock to stories of hope, forgiveness, accepting imperfection and overcoming weakness? Because it gives us hope, brings communities together, diminishes evil and helps us believe in a better tomorrow…as shown in a fabulous ensemble number “Tomorrow is a Latter-day,” near the end of one of Broadway’s newest musicals, The Book of Mormon. This show might not be for all Mormons out there or the right-wing conservative, but if you’ve ever chuckled at even one South Park episode then you should head to Broadway to see what will definitely be a top contender for a Tony Award this year.

As a believer in the Mormon faith I did not find the musical to be mean spirited or horribly offensive. I went into the show expecting the worst, but laughed (sometimes at the uncomfortableness) and cheered (the acting and direction is amazing) just as loud as everyone around me. I adore the missionary songs and ensemble pieces. The opening Book of Mormon song is energizing, the Two by Two song made me feel nostalgia toward my mission experiences, Turn it off – a nifty little Mormon trick - is a melody I’ve been humming since Tuesday, the I am/We are Africa song might make you pee your pants a little, and the lineup of the last few songs really might bring a tear to your eyes (they didn’t have a song list in the program during previews so I don’t know the exact name of the songs). I wouldn’t be surprised to see a few of the appropriate songs turn up in ward talent shows.

So is the show irreverent? Absolutely - but not all of it! The first half of the show only has one horribly offensive song. Upon arrival to Africa, Elders Prince and Cunningham meet the villagers where they will be living. The villagers quickly dismiss their message of hope by explaining that they address their issues by singing a phrase (making fun of Lion King’s hakunamatata) that translates to and is visually carried out with choreography that gives God the middle finger. Because of the missionaries’ horribly offended reactions when they figure out the translation, you can’t help but laugh, but equally feel like you might get struck by lightning for laughing at this song – which any religious person would be offended by, not just Mormons.

The second half of the musical crosses the line even further with sexual gestures that are sure to offend more conservative viewers, but there is no nudity as other Broadway shows have included. The crude jokes in the musical are no worse than you might hear on an average day and of course should be expected from the creators of this show.

Some might also find the jokes in regards to how the teaching of the church are ridiculed - Joseph Smith finding gold plates, the origins of a third book and people testifying of Christ on the American continent, blacks and the priesthood, Kolob – as a bit insensitive, but if you are a Mormon and can’t admit that some of our beliefs are a little crazy…then you’re not realistic. There are unbelievable teachings and miracles within all religions; and also an undeniable power behind faith. I do love how the script and songs after anything that is offensive, or a little over the top, seem to be the most touching scenes of the show and the heart is quickly softened.

The gem of this show, and the aspects I felt also shed a charming light on the Mormon faith, is the strong message of hope and forgiveness in the show. Key to Mormon beliefs is the teachings that we are not perfect, we make mistakes, each of us has our own understanding of faith and religion, and our relationship with God is individual.

As a huge Broadway fan I loved the show, I love the last number before the intermission, I love the ending and the final number…the reprise is even better. I left the show with a smile on my face and still proud to be a Mormon. Even better, everyone who walks out of the theater watching this show have smiles on their faces. The Book of Mormon, the musical, is not a credible source for the teachings of the church, but I don’t believe anyone going to the show is going with the intent to find a true record of the Mormon faith. I wouldn’t be surprised if this show will help break the ice and prime the field for more discussions about The Church of Jesus-Christ of Latter-day Saints with friends and colleagues, where Mormons will have the opportunity to share the true doctrines.

I hope that no Mormon will criticize the show without seeing it…and I encourage Mormons everywhere to brave it and see the show to form your own opinion…and I really hope you’ll share your experience with me.

Note (updated March 19): I would like to clarify that I chose "brave it" to encourage those on the fence and interested in seeing the show to do so. This show is crass and would be R-rated. Read what is out there and decide what is best for you - a quick study of South Park material will give you a good idea of what you're in for. A couple of my close friends who recently saw the show, mentioned that they went into it expecting the crassness and offensiveness to be minimal, based on what I wrote in my post. I went in expecting the worst..and specifically wrote my thoughts based around the fact that the offenses taken at this show are not directly related to the Mormon faith and would offend many, regardless of religion. Anyone who opposes South Park humor may not like this show.