The Book of Mormon- Dublin's Funniest Show Right Now? Honest Review
- Richard Brown
- 23 hours ago
- 4 min read
The Book of Mormon has finally landed in Dublin, bringing its hilarious, boundary-pushing humor to the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre. This smash-hit Broadway and West End musical, created by the minds behind South Park, is known for its outrageous dark comedy, unforgettable songs, and surprisingly heartfelt moments. But is it worth the hype? In this review, we’ll dive into why The Book of Mormon is one of the must-see shows in Dublin right now, and whether it lives up to its legendary reputation with an Irish audience.
The Book of Mormon- A Review of this Hilarious Must See Musical!
I was very excited to get an email through inviting me to my first ever Irish press night, especially for a show like The Book of Mormon! Having seen the show on the previous Dublin tour, in London and also on the US Tour at the Pantages Theatre, Hollywood, you may call me a bit of an expert. But with this show, sometimes I feel slightly apprehensive of how an audience might react to the absurd and shocking humor that might offend the general public.
With the writers of the hit show South Park, Trey Parker and Matt Stone, with Avenue Q and Frozen writer Robert Lopez at the creative helm of this production, the style of comedy does not come at much of a surprise. With lewd, rude and crude jokes, even the plot tethers the line of "Should I really be laughing at this?"
Well, without spoiling the show, the plot focuses on a mission of Mormons who are being given their placements around the world. Elder Price dreams of moving to somewhere exotic... like Orlando, Florida... but is paired with a less than elegant Elder Cunningham and are sent to Uganda in Africa. The main plot focuses on how the characters try their best to convert the people there to Mormonism. With show stopping numbers, great vocals, extravagant set pieces and hard hitting humour, does this show translate well to an Irish audience?
Why is the Book of Mormon Dublin's Most Funniest Musical Right Now?
With casting Utah Mormons and the people of Uganda, each member must be a triple threat to ensure the story is as comedic and engaging. Sam Glen (Elder Cunningham) exudes all of these qualities, along with incredible comic timing. From the moment he stepped on stage, it was clear that we were in safe hands with Cunningham's humour. The inclusion of some Irish icons in his performance won over the audience.
Adam Bailey (Elder Price) plays the straight man very well to contrast the madness of Cunningham with a grounded performance. His comedy timing really complimented his partner, allowing for some great scenes in Act II. One area of concern was that with either the sound or illness, we found it very hard to hear his vocals throughout most of his songs. You and Me (But Mostly Me) was nearly inaudible, which was a shame because Bailey did a great job with his comedic timing in those songs.
Nyah Nish delivers a powerful performance as Nabulungi, again who's vocals and comedic timing was second to none. She really held her own surrounded by the craziness of the Mormons around her.
Tom Bales (Elder McKinely) had one of those parts that you are envious that he gets to play each night. He comes in and steals the show with his number Turn It Off. I was worried the man behind me was going to suffocate from his screams of laughter at Bales performance. His dancing ability also shone through.
I was extremely impressed with the ensemble vocals and performance, particularly the Mormons. Two By Two caused a cacophony of laughter, leaving most around me drying their eyes with tears of joy. This just shows how this show fits in very well with the Irish general public.
The scenic design was excellent for this production with it fitting the Bord Gáis stage very well. My major gripe was the sound just didn't balance the way it should have, leading us to struggle to hear some lines, especially with the orchestra playing behind, which they did beautifully throughout with a full sound.
Overall, a very strong opening night for the Mormons. I may not yet be converted to the Church of Jesus Christ of Later Day Saints, but I will happily buy a ticket to see a completely holy/unholy/or both riot on stage at the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre before it finishes its run in May.
Ticket Information and Show Times for The Book of Mormon in Dublin.
The Book of Mormon runs from the 1st of April until the 3rd of May 2025 at the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre, Dublin. Performance times are Monday to Saturday (with matinees on Fridays and Saturdays). Tickets can be purchased by calling the box office on +353016777999 or through their website https://www.bordgaisenergytheatre.ie/show/the-book-of-mormon/
Location: Bord Gáis Energy Theatre, Dublin. Date of Review: 2nd April 2025
Star Rating: ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Disclaimer: Richard was invited to review this show as part of the Press Night on April 2nd, 2025 by the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre. All views are his own and we're not influenced by the invite.
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