The majorly successful Broadway musical “The Book of Momon” made its way to Grand Forks for just one night on Oct. 22. Nederlander National Markets, in partnership with the Chester Performing Arts Center, presents a “Broadway in Grand Forks” series each year, and this was the first of the three productions. Musical theatre fans from all around the area came together to watch this beloved production performed by a professional company.
“The Book of Mormon” is a satirical musical comedy created by Matt Stone and Trey Parker, the writers of the show “South Park”, and Robert Lopez. It follows the story of two Mormon missionaries who get sent to a village in Uganda to share the Book of Morman with the people there who are reluctant to learn about God. An overly confident Elder Price finds himself questioning his faith while his partner Elder Cunningham finds unique ways to share his own versions of the biblical stories. It suggests an alternative perspective to faith and how religion can be adapted to the needs of those who can find support in believing.
This musical has been on Broadway since 2011 and has gained much success over the years from fans of musical theater and even members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It has been performed all over the world, and this specific production is a traveling show that goes from town to town being set up and performed every night.
The set included an LED portal frame in the shape of a church, various backdrops, and moving pieces and structures. Along with this, the costume design was quite intricate and really brought you into the performance even further.
Songs like “Turn it Off” which included a complex tap dance break with a sparkly costume change, “Hasa Diga Eebowai” the missionaries first introduction to their new life, and “Hello!” were just a few crowd favorites. Each one being their own unique comedic take on Mormon culture including various nods at specific norms.
The cast and crew’s efforts to create a seamless, professional, and Broadway level production did not go unnoticed by the audience. Each performer, whether they played a major part or took on a smaller role, led a captivating and memorable performance. It is productions like this that highlight the hard work and dedication that goes into artistic entertainment, which is something that is highly valued and important in today’s climate.
This was the first production of the 2025-2026 “Broadway in Grand Forks” series and there are still two more left. The next being “Tina – The Tina Turner Musical” on Feb. 14 and “Hadestown” on Mar. 17. Tickets will be available for purchase through the Chester Fritz Performing Arts Center’s box office and will be quite a unique experience that gives you a taste for that Broadway flare in Grand Forks.
Nora Lee is a Dakota Student Section Editor. She can be reached at [email protected].
