The Book of Mormon - London

With The Book of Mormon being one of the more expensive shows currently on the West End, I was a little skeptical about whether it was worth parting with enough money to see at least two other musicals. I eventually opted for seats up in the circle, which have a surprisingly amazing view of the stage.

The show opens with the song 'Hello' and from the first few lines, I knew that I was in for an excellent performance. The Elders are all so happy that I found myself grinning along with them, and the song so catchy that it was difficult not to hum along.

The story follows two Mormons who receive their first mission, to go to Uganda and spread the word of the Book of Mormon to an African village, more interested in their problems with aids and a warlord. Whilst it's easy to see why people could find this an offensive show, it comes across with so much charm that you forget about the little digs at religion and instead just fall in love with the characters and their plight.

Songs such as Sal Tlay Ka Siti and You and Me show off the talent of the cast whilst Man Up and Joseph Smith American Moses are catchy and hilarious to the point of audience members literally crying with laughter.

In this production, the role of Elder Price was performed by understudy Ashley Day, full of charisma and such a strong voice that it was difficult to believe that he doesn't play the part every night.

Ashley played alongside Jared Gertner, who perfected the role of enthusiastic yet adorable Elder Cunningham who you can't help but wish every success and want to befriend.

In all honesty, the entire company were stunning and made this one of the most incredible shows that I have seen. I have to give a special mention to Stephen Ashfield as Elder McKinley for a fabulous yet also very camp performance of 'Turn it off'.

Whilst I had listened to the cast recording of the show before, the ending was still a complete surprise and left everyone with a smile on their face as well as humming as they left the theatre.

Overall, the story was incredibly funny yet still heartwarming at the same time, and for a matinee performance in one of the smaller West End theatres, the rounds of applause and cheers were incredible and very well deserved. The show was even better than I had thought possible and I would urge anyone to go and see it. I know i'll be back again.