This week, I was lucky enough to be invited to attend the Press Night for The Book of Mormon at the Alhambra Theatre in Bradford. A special thank you to Leanne for this invitation.
The press performance of The Book of Mormon at The Alhambra Theatre was an absolute triumph from start to finish. Although I’d heard plenty about its reputation, the energy, humour, and sheer talent on stage still managed to exceed my expectations. Already hailed as a modern classic, The Book of Mormon more than lives up to the glowing reviews, with The New York Times calling it “The best musical of this century".
Experiencing this show for the first time, I finally understood its enduring appeal. The story follows two young missionaries, the ambitious Elder Price (played by Adam Bailey) and the bumbling, compulsively imaginative Elder Cunningham (played by Sam Glen), as they embark on a mission from Salt Lake City to a remote Ugandan village.
For Price, who dreamt of preaching in Orlando, this remote setting is disappointing, and his woes are only intensified by being paired with Cunningham, whose penchant for exaggeration leads to a series of chaotic misadventures. Their journey begins with a hilarious Lion-King-style send-off before they meet their fellow missionaries, who have had zero success in converting the locals – something Price and Cunningham are determined to change.
Watching this mismatched duo navigate Uganda is both hilarious and heartwarming, especially as they attempt to persuade villagers who, struggling with famine, AIDS, and oppression, have little faith in divine intervention. The song "Hasa Diga Eebowai," which captures the villagers’ frustrations, is as shocking as it is memorable.
Among the laughs, there was genuine awe at the powerhouse vocals of Elder Price and Elder Cunningham, particularly in showstoppers like "I Believe" and "Man Up." Nyah Nish also dazzles as Nabulungi (nicknamed everything from Nutella to Nigel Farage) in her soulful rendition of "Sal Tlay Ka Siti," captivating the audience with her heartfelt performance.
Despite its outrageous humour, the musical offers surprisingly thoughtful commentary on faith, friendship, and the human condition. The writers balance satire and heart with remarkable skill, making the show accessible and engaging for a wide audience.
Overall, The Book of Mormon at The Alhambra Theatre is an unmissable experience that redefines what musical theatre can achieve. With its mix of laugh-out-loud moments, emotional resonance, and undeniable talent at every level, this production is a must-see for anyone looking to be entertained, challenged, and thoroughly delighted.
The Book of Mormon is on tour at The Alhambra Theatre from the 5th of November until the 23rd of November. Tickets are still available, and you can buy your tickets here. Don’t miss your chance—book your tickets now!
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