IT'S not often you go into a theatre as a reviewer not knowing what to expect.
Granted, a lot has been written about this enigmatic musical but you have to experience it on stage live for the full impact.
Some people simply weren't prepared for this multi-layered, unique piece of theatre. Even word-of-mouth can't adequately describe what the show is about.
Shocking, sensitive, crude, and clever with an outstanding wide-ranging musical score - which is accompanied by sparkling Hollywood-styled choreography.
There is a warning, too: The Book of Morman is packed full of X certificate dialogue and risque visual gags.
I swear that after a while you start not to notice it - like watching Billy Connolly in full flow.
A baptism of fire is the best way to describe it.
On paper, the tale of clean-cut, all-American religious missionaries trying to convert the street-wise, sassy folk of Uganda may not grab you - but once the storyline, performances, and the superb sets kick in you are on your way to a two-hour and fifteen minutes (including interval) production that never loses pace, momentum or the surprise factor.
It is a musical from the people who gave us South Park and Avenue Q - two comedic brand names that never fail to be irreverent, yet topical and punchy.
There are many strands here: friendships; betrayal; modern parental pressure; religious obsession; guilt; commercialism; re-writing history and a fairly unsettling glimpse of hell featuring Hitler.
With such a big company it's hard to single out any one cast member. Suffice to say - like the ill-fated, deluded missionary elders this is all about teamwork and this cast makes it what it is - an astonishing musical achievement.
It is also a testament (old and new) to timing in comedy, music, and dance.
The Book of Mormon is indeed a revelation. You leave the theatre singing some dubious lyrics while having a huge smile on your face.
Ultimately this is a show with a divine twist that gives out a message of hope.
The immediate standing ovation said it all. Members of this multi-versatile cast were genuinely moved by the audience's zealous reaction.
Globe verdict
Five Stars
Praise Be . . . It's Unforgettable
Until August 13
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here