‘The Book of Mormon’ at Eugene O’Neill Theater - Review - NYTimes.com
Hmm. Ben certainly likes the show. I have neither heard nor seen anything of the show, but combining the overtly childish melodies of Avenue Q with the irreverent sensibilities of South Park can certainly make for a hilariously entertaining time.
I worry that in this era of post-postmodernist self-referential musicals, the references to musicals past these shows evoke – nay, rely upon – may be lost on those who are unfamiliar with the historical lexicography and stylistic taxonomy of the genre. Much like a theatergoer who is unfamiliar with The Glass Menagerie and who goes to see the Chris Durang one act “For Whom the Southern Belle Tolls,” I fear that the deeper jokes can be lost on the vox populace and, while entertaining on the surface, these shows may not stand the test of time.
