When The Smith Center for the Performing Arts opened in 2012, one of its first major bookings was Broadway sensation The Book of Mormon, immediately proving that the new performing arts center could bring the highest-quality productions to Las Vegas. So the subversive musical by South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone (along with Robert Lopez) has a special significance for The Smith Center, and its latest return to town is another sign that the downtown venue is a cornerstone of arts and culture.
That’s not to say that Book of Mormon is highbrow and snooty: Part of what’s made the musical so successful is its raunchy sense of humor, the way it approaches both Mormonism and the traditional structure of a Broadway show with the same irreverence the creators bring to South Park. The satire about two Mormon missionaries in Uganda takes on religious tolerance and other controversial issues via naughty jokes and catchy songs, without ever talking down to its audience. The current touring production features two previous stars of the Broadway show (Liam Tobin and Jordan Matthew Brown) in the main roles, along with a talented supporting cast and stellar production values. Audiences know to expect nothing less from The Smith Center.
The Smith Center for the Performing Arts, 7:30 p.m. July 30-Aug. 2, 2 & 7:30 p.m. Aug. 3-4, starting at $40 plus tax and fee. 702.749.2000
