‘The Book of Mormon’ Is Sorry if You Have Been Offended for 15 Years
The New York Times • • entertainment
Key Points:
- "The Book of Mormon," a musical co-created by Trey Parker, Matt Stone, and Robert Lopez, debuted on Broadway in 2011 without a prior tryout, marking a bold and controversial entry into theater.
- Parker and Stone, known for "South Park," were new to theater, while Lopez brought experience from co-writing the 2003 hit "Avenue Q."
- The show pushed boundaries of tastelessness further than previous taboo-breaking musicals like "The Producers," tackling sensitive topics with satire.
- Cast members faced challenges portraying characters that recited church doctrines and addressed harsh subjects such as AIDS and clitoridectomy in a comedic yet provocative manner.
- The musical's provocative content and satirical approach generated anxiety among actors, who were aware they were the frontline of the show's controversial themes.
