As the musical 'The Book of Mormon' celebrates its 15th anniversary on Broadway, its original stars, Andrew Rannells and Josh Gad, reflect on their journey and the show's enduring impact. The musical, a satirical take on Mormonism and youthful naïveté, made its debut in 2011 and quickly became a sensation. Rannells and Gad, who played Elder Price and Elder Cunningham respectively, share their experiences and insights, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the show's creation and its lasting legacy.
One of the most memorable aspects of the show's opening was the song 'Hello!'. Rannells recalls his initial reaction: 'I heard the humor in it and I felt very confident that people were going to think it was funny'. Gad, on the other hand, was initially hesitant due to the song's potential to offend. He says, 'I said, 'I don't think I can do this show... Because I don't want to get killed.''
Despite their initial concerns, the show's success was evident from the start. It received nine Tony Awards in 2011, including best musical and best score. The musical's satirical edge and emotional depth have contributed to its longevity, as Rannells and Gad continue to make cameo appearances in every show this week, along with the show's creators and original cast members.
The show's songs, influenced by musical theater classics like 'Wicked', 'The King and I', 'The Lion King', and 'The Music Man', have become instantaneously hummable and memorable. Gad highlights the show's ability to blend satire with a pro-faith message, stating, 'If you stick with the craziness and chaos ... the end is very uplifting. It's actually quite emotional and soaring.'
However, Rannells and Gad's time with the show was not without challenges. They both faced the decision to leave the show and later regretted it. Rannells says, 'I wish that I had stayed longer', while Gad acknowledges his regret, stating, 'I look back at that now with a lot of regret. Because I don't think I appreciated this incredible moment until I was able to reflect on it, actually, years later.'
Despite their eventual departures, the show's impact on Rannells and Gad's careers cannot be overstated. They have since pursued other projects, but the memories and lessons learned from 'The Book of Mormon' remain with them. As the show continues to captivate audiences, its original stars offer a unique perspective on the power of musical theater and the enduring nature of creative endeavors.
