The Book of Mormon returns to The Bristol Hippodrome in 2025
Posted on: 01 Dec 2024The Book of Mormon, the hilarious West End show, returns to The Bristol Hippodrome from 21 October 2025 until 8 November 2025 and tickets are available now from £18.95 (inc. booking fees).
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Laugh out loud funny with insanely catchy music you will be humming for months on end! Be sure to catch Book of Mormon whilst you can!
The New York Times calls it ‘The best musical of this century.’ The Washington Post says, 'It is the kind of evening that restores your faith in musicals.’ And Entertainment Weekly raves, 'Grade A: the funniest musical of all time.' It’s The Book of Mormon, the nine-time Tony Award and four-time Olivier Award-winning Best Musical.
This outrageous musical comedy from the creators of South Park, Trey Parker and Matt Stone, and Bobby Lopez, the Co-writer of Avenue Q and Frozen, follows the misadventures of a mismatched pair of missionaries, sent on a mission to a place that's about as far from Salt Lake City as you can get.
The Book of Mormon Musical: A Bold, Hilarious Satire That Captivates Audiences
Since its debut in 2011, The Book of Mormon has become one of the most celebrated and talked-about musicals of the 21st century. Created by Trey Parker and Matt Stone (the minds behind South Park) along with Robert Lopez (Avenue Q and Frozen), the show blends irreverent humor, catchy music, and thought-provoking satire. It has earned widespread acclaim, winning nine Tony Awards, including Best Musical, and maintaining a strong presence on Broadway and international stages.
Plot Overview
The Book of Mormon follows the journey of two mismatched Mormon missionaries, Elder Kevin Price and Elder Arnold Cunningham, as they are sent to a remote village in Uganda. Tasked with converting locals to Mormonism, they encounter a range of challenges, including poverty, disease, and cultural differences. The Ugandan villagers, plagued by a tyrannical warlord and life-threatening struggles, are initially indifferent to the missionaries’ message. What unfolds is a hilarious exploration of faith, friendship, and the complexities of spreading religion in a modern world.
Themes and Satirical Edge
The musical is a sharp satire of organized religion, American cultural naivety, and the often misguided idealism of missionary work. It walks a fine line, poking fun at the doctrines of Mormonism and broader religious practices while ultimately celebrating human resilience and the search for meaning. The humor is bold and boundary-pushing, often venturing into taboo territory, but its underlying message is surprisingly heartwarming.
Key themes include:
Faith and Doubt: The show explores the tension between belief and skepticism, as characters grapple with their convictions.
Cultural Clashes: The juxtaposition of the missionaries’ optimistic worldview with the harsh realities of the Ugandan villagers is both poignant and comedic.
The Power of Storytelling: Through Elder Cunningham’s wildly inaccurate yet engaging reinterpretation of Mormon scripture, the show highlights how stories evolve to fit context and need.
Music and Performance
The musical numbers, composed by Robert Lopez and Parker and Stone, are a highlight of the show. Songs like "I Believe," "Hello," and "Hasa Diga Eebowai" are as memorable as they are entertaining, showcasing a mix of traditional Broadway styles and irreverent lyrics. The performances require impeccable comedic timing and vocal talent, and the ensemble cast plays a critical role in delivering the show’s dynamic energy.
Reception and Impact
The Book of Mormon received rave reviews from critics upon its premiere. The New York Times called it “the best musical of this century,” praising its clever writing and infectious music. Audiences have flocked to see it, drawn by its reputation for being both outrageously funny and surprisingly touching.
Despite its popularity, the musical has not been without controversy. Its portrayal of African characters and reliance on stereotypes have drawn criticism, with some arguing that the humor can come across as insensitive. The creators, however, have defended their approach, emphasizing that the satire is aimed at everyone equally and that the intent is to provoke thought as well as laughter.
Legacy
Over a decade later, The Book of Mormon remains a cultural phenomenon. Its ability to balance humor with heartfelt moments has set a new standard for satirical storytelling in theater. For many, it serves as both an introduction to the peculiarities of Mormonism and a broader commentary on human belief systems.
Whether you're a theater enthusiast or someone simply curious about the buzz, The Book of Mormon promises a theatrical experience unlike any other—irreverent, bold, and unforgettably entertaining.
BOOK OF MORMON TICKETS
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Bristol born and bred despite the name, Brendan has been working in the digital media sector for the last 15 years and advertising for the last 25 years. A wealth of knowledge about the city and more importantly at how to help businesses get as much online exposure as possible. Call Brendan on 07876 735153 or email Brendan@365bristol.com.
