A review of this musical noted “sacrilege” & said it was “blasphemous” but “its heart is as pure as … a Rodgers & Hammerstein show”
On March 14, 2025, Jeopardy! contestants faced a challenging clue in the category “21st Century Broadway.” The clue read:
“A review of this musical noted ‘sacrilege’ & said it was ‘blasphemous’ but ‘its heart is as pure as … a Rodgers & Hammerstein show’.”
What is The Book of Mormon?
The Book of Mormon premiered on Broadway in 2011 and quickly became one of the most successful and talked-about musicals of the 21st century. Created by Trey Parker and Matt Stone (best known for South Park) alongside composer Robert Lopez (Avenue Q, Frozen), the show blends irreverent humor with traditional musical theater elements.
The musical follows two young Mormon missionaries, Elder Price and Elder Cunningham, who are sent to Uganda to spread their faith. The storyline incorporates satire, comedy, and heartfelt moments as the missionaries encounter cultural misunderstandings and personal revelations. Despite its often crude humor, the show maintains a classic Broadway structure, complete with big musical numbers and a hopeful, uplifting arc.
The Critical Reception and the “Blasphemous” Label
From its debut, The Book of Mormon was both praised and criticized for its approach to religious satire. Some reviewers and religious groups labeled it as “blasphemous” due to its bold and unfiltered portrayal of Mormonism and organized religion. However, critics also recognized its deeper themes—faith, community, and personal transformation—comparing its emotional core to classic musicals from Rodgers and Hammerstein, known for their heartfelt storytelling and moral lessons.
Ben Brantley of The New York Times famously described it as “blasphemous, scurrilous and outrageous” but also noted that it was “surprisingly sweet,” drawing a comparison to the sincerity found in The Sound of Music or The King and I. The musical’s ability to balance sharp humor with genuine sentiment contributed to its lasting appeal.
Broadway Success and Cultural Impact
The Book of Mormon became a massive hit, winning nine Tony Awards, including Best Musical. It also received a Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album and has since had multiple touring productions worldwide. The show’s financial success was equally impressive, earning over $500 million on Broadway alone.
Beyond its commercial achievements, the musical introduced a broader audience to satirical theater while prompting discussions about religion and belief. Despite its controversial nature, many members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints took a surprisingly measured response, even using the show’s popularity as an opportunity to promote real Mormon teachings.
Enduring Legacy on Broadway
More than a decade after its debut, The Book of Mormon remains one of Broadway’s most celebrated and frequently referenced productions. Its success demonstrated that modern musical theater could push boundaries while still capturing the magic of traditional storytelling.
The Jeopardy! clue referencing the musical highlights its lasting cultural footprint. By comparing it to a Rodgers and Hammerstein show, critics acknowledged that while the musical’s humor may be unconventional, its heart and structure remain firmly rooted in classic Broadway traditions.