Typically the press night buzz at the Memphis Orpheum starts in the lobby . . . or at least inside the foyer. Last night, however, it radiated for two square blocks in all directions as Mormon missionaries turned out in force to meet and greet theater goers. These clean-cut, youth, armed with literature and disarming smiles had driven all the way from Little Rock. They weren't protesting the show, just using the opportunity to tell their side the world Trey Parker and Matt Stone (Creators of South Park) and Robert Lopez, composer of 'Avenue Q' so famously lampooned.
It's quickly becoming a household name. Although it's nothing like some of the shows considered 'classic Broadway', it has erupted into an existence far from anything of its kind on stage. Book of Mormon could be considered a somewhat mythical creature in the realm of theatre. The ultimate amalgamation of all things Broadway and South Park - this show is a masterpiece.
The missionaries of The Book of Mormon have been to Des Moines before and with the reception they received during their return engagement this past week, it seems that they can drop by and say "Hello!" anytime they want.
A great, big Broadway season is on its way, with fourteen productions already slated to open in the next few months. The craziness is almost upon us, but there is still plenty of time to catch up on what's been going on at Broadway's already occupied theaters .
BroadwayWorld will be profiling the hits of the Great White Way that continue to draw crowds after months, years, and (in some cases) decades. Meet the current cast of Broadway's THE BOOK OF MORMON below!
