The Book of Mormon has returned to Brisbane for its third season, now playing at QPAC’s Glasshouse Theatre until 4 October, proving once again why it remains one of the most celebrated and outrageous musicals ever written.
The move into the Glasshouse Theatre creates a more intimate theatrical experience, allowing audiences to feel even closer to the action. Every laugh lands with greater impact, and judging by the constant waves of laughter throughout the performance, Brisbane audiences relished every gloriously inappropriate moment.
Written by South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone, with a sensational score by EGOT-winning composer Bobby Lopez (Frozen, Avenue Q), The Book of Mormon is deliciously naughty, unapologetically satirical and relentlessly funny. Beneath its provocative humour lies an unexpectedly heartfelt story about friendship, faith and finding purpose in the most unlikely places.
More than a decade after its Broadway premiere, the script remains razor-sharp, while Lopez’s infectious score is packed with unforgettable songs.
Sean Johnston is outstanding as the confident and ambitious Elder Price. He delivers soaring vocals alongside a polished performance that perfectly captures the character’s confidence before revealing his more vulnerable side. Johnston’s commanding stage presence anchors the production from start to finish.
Nick Cox is a scene-stealer as the eccentric Elder Cunningham. His impeccable comic timing, expressive physical comedy and boundless enthusiasm have the audience laughing from his very first entrance. Beneath the humour, Cox also finds genuine heart, making Elder Cunningham an incredibly likeable character.
Making an impressive professional debut, Paris Leveque is a radiant Nabulungi. Her beautiful vocals and natural warmth bring emotional sincerity to the production, providing the perfect balance to the show’s outrageous comedy. It is a confident and memorable debut performance.
Tom Struik is hilarious as Elder McKinley, embracing every awkward and wonderfully absurd moment with confidence and precision.
Simbarashe Matshe brings authority and warmth as Mafala Hatimbi, while Augie Tchantcho is outstanding as The General, reprising the role with commanding stage presence and perfectly judged menace.
Matthew Hamilton is consistently entertaining as the Mission President, adding warmth and understated comedy whenever he appears.
The production is beautifully supported by an exceptional company.
Malachi Alexander, Zahrah Andrews, Connor Banks Griffith, Hayden Baum, Jade Baynes, Zohra Bednarz, John Rex Berry, Oscar Bridges, Blake Douglas, Jack Duff, Bayley John Edmends, Josh Gardiner, Prophecy Mudzingwa, Josh Mulheran, Sekou Salah Nance, Mickey Nixon, Alexis Ijeoma Nwokoji, Bronson Pfeiler, Justin Phillips, Devin Price, Reynel Reynaldo, Callum Rigg, Liam Robertson, Deja Simone, Chelsea Smith and Jasmine Vaughns work seamlessly together, whether in the ensemble, as swings, standbys or dance captains.
Their polished vocals, energetic choreography and unwavering commitment ensure every scene bursts with life.
The production values remain first class, with slick direction, vibrant choreography and clever staging that transitions effortlessly between Salt Lake City and rural Uganda. The intimacy of the Glasshouse Theatre gives audiences an even greater appreciation of the cast’s talent and the show’s intricate staging.
Whether you’ve seen The Book of Mormon before or are experiencing it for the first time, this third Brisbane season is as hilarious, shocking and joyous as ever. It’s bold, brilliantly written and outrageously entertaining, with an extraordinary cast delivering performances of the highest calibre. Expect to laugh until your cheeks hurt and leave reminded why this modern Broadway classic continues to captivate audiences around the world.
TICKETS
Now Playing at the Glasshouse Theatre, QPAC
Until 4 October
All images by Daniel Boud
