Melbourne has always had a bit of a rebellious streak, which probably explains why we’ve welcomed The Book of Mormon back to the Princess Theatre with open arms and zero shame.
It’s the musical that managed to make the creators of South Park and Avenue Q look like the most wholesome people on Broadway, that is until you actually listen to the lyrics. Since kicking off its 2026 return this February, the show has proven that it hasn’t lost an ounce of its bite, remaining a glorious, tap-dancing middle finger to everything polite, wrapped up in the kind of high-energy choreography that makes you feel lazy just watching it.
The pitch remains as delightfully absurd as ever: two mismatched Mormon missionaries are sent to a remote village in Uganda to spread the Word. Along the way they meet warlords, fellow missionaries and some villagers who need a bit of help.
This season, we have Sean Johnston (of Hairspray fame) stepping into the polished shoes of the golden-boy Elder Price, while Nick Cox brings a chaotic, high-energy charm to the chronic liar, Elder Cunningham. Together, they navigate a world of warlords, local legends, and more than a few “blasphemous” musical numbers that would make a nun blush. The supporting cast is absolutely fantastic.
It is relentlessly fast, brilliantly offensive and, this is the weird part, genuinely heartwarming. It’s also the only show where you’ll find yourself humming a song about an unspeakable act toward a frog for the next three weeks.
The Princess Theatre is the perfect backdrop for this kind of theatrical mayhem, with its grand architecture providing a nice, ironic contrast to the filth on stage.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan who can quote every line of “Hasa Diga Eebowai” or you’re a first-timer wondering why everyone is so excited about a doorbell, the energy in the room is electric. It was great to see a few audience members dressed up as missionaries for opening night (at least we hope they were in costume, otherwise it would have been a big shock).
It’s a great night out for people who usually find musical theatre a bit too “jazz hands,” proving that you can have a nine-time Tony Award-winning production that still feels like a rowdy night at the pub. Just remember to leave your pearls at home because they’re only going to get clutched.
– The Plus Ones
