Review: THE BOOK OF MORMON Converts the Fox Cities P.A.C. Into Believers

This second run of THE BOOK OF MORMON at the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center in Appleton, WI is just as delightful as the first.

For those unindoctrinated, THE BOOK OF MORMON follows two missionaries on their mission to a war-torn village in Africa. When the mission isn't the success they had intended, they resort to some unusual means to convert villagers. This satirical masterpiece was written by Trey Parker, Robert Lopez and Matt Stone and opened on Broadway in 2011. Parker and Stone are also known for SOUTH PARK, while Robert Lopez is known for his work on AVENUE Q and FROZEN.

If you don't enjoy jokes about religion, famine, war and AIDS, this show definitely isn't for you. However, anyone with a taste for tasteless humor will love the show.

The music is predominantly upbeat with catchy tunes that will get stuck in your head for days. The sharp choreography by Casey Nicholaw is hilarious in its own right and really helps set the tone for the musical.

The whole cast makes excellent use of the material. The ensemble has great comedic timing and ensures there is something entertaining happening on every inch of the stage.

Ryan Bondy as Elder Price effectively conveyed "likable egomaniac." In spite of the character's braggart ways, audiences can't help but root for him.

Cody Jamison Strand as Elder Cunningham is as sassy and light on his feet as he was when he performed with the show in Appleton two years ago. His energy and charisma leap off the stage.

Candace Quarrels as Nabulungi gave a performance that was both hilarious and poignant (often simultaneously). Her strong, clear voice and terrific acting chops made her numbers stand out.

All in all, THE BOOK OF MORMON is a great start to the 2016-2017 season at the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center. The show is at least as entertaining now as it was during its 2014 run.

THE BOOK OF MORMON will play at the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center through Sunday, October 9. Tickets are still available.

Photo Credit: Joan Marcus

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