Lyrics Meaning and impact of "Hello!" by Original Broadway Cast of The Book of Mormon
Song info:
- Featuring Artist(s): Lewis Cleale, Jason Michael Snow, Brian Sears, Josh Gad, Andrew Rannells
- Producer(s): Kurt Deutsch, Scott Rudin, Anne Garefino, Robert Lopez, Matt Stone, Trey Parker, Stephen Oremus
- Writers: Trey Parker, Matt Stone, Robert Lopez
- Orchestration: Larry Hochman, Stephen Oremus
- Release date: May 17, 2011
- Musical Genre: Broadway, Comedy, Musical Theater
- Album: The Book of Mormon (Original Broadway Cast Recording)
- Track #: 1
- Language(s): English
- Mood: Satirical, Upbeat, Humorous
Song meaning.
Andrew Rannells played Elder Kevin Price on Broadway in 2011. The song introduces the Book of Mormon and the thematic presence of Mormon elders, highlighting their door-to-door interactions with potential members. The Book of Mormon is revered by LDS church members as the "keystone" of their religion, as it holds the arch of their beliefs together. The phrase comes from Ezra Taft Benson's speech, which argued that if the Book of Mormon was not a work of fiction, Joseph Smith was a true prophet and the LDS church is God's one true church.
The Elders are at the Missionary Training Center (Mission Control) and are practicing converting people to Mormonism using any means possible. The show also references prominent Mormon leaders Brigham Young and Martin Harris, who were the second prophets of the LDS Church and helped finance the Book of Mormon.
Elder Price introduces the book to the audience, presenting it as free and drawing attention to the door-to-door salesmanship practiced by Mormon missionaries. The use of "peruse" in the song is technically incorrect, though it is intended to mean "to read thoroughly." Elder Harris adopts a more adoring tone, smiling widely and leaning in slightly.
Mormons believe that the Book of Mormon is the integral third book of the Bible, and they fear that those who do not possess it or are not Mormon will "burn in hell." The mention of a neat and orderly home ties into Mormon familial values and their notably friendly demeanor.
The show concludes with the Mormons being sent to various countries as part of their duty to spread the religion, utilizing every possible language in every corner of the world.
The song "The Book of Mormon" is set at the LDS Missionary Church Training Center in Provo, Utah, where the elders practice door-to-door proselytizing. The line "Hey now" is used to rebuke an elder who says something offensive, implying that anyone who isn't Mormon will go to Hell. This line foreshadows Elder Price's experience in Hell, where Satan mentions the presence of Catholics and Jews, reinforcing the notion that only Mormons are destined for Heaven. The actor portraying McKinley usually delivers this line, hinting at his appearance in Price's Hell Dream.
Elder Cunningham, the uninformed Mormon, is depicted as both annoying and distinct from the other Mormon elders. An off-stage voice representing the Head Elder lends an impression of a God-like status within the church. Elder Cunningham breaks the mold with his three-syllable name, which disrupts the rhythm of the "approved dialogue." Similarly, Elder McKinley's name, also three syllables, hints at his gay identity. The final verse of the opening song in The Book of Mormon musical evokes the reverence and beauty of The Tabernacle Choir at Temple Square, known for their church gospel music and hymns.
Setting the Stage
The song introduces the primary theme of The Book of Mormon: religious missionary work through a satirical lens. Using synchronized doorbell rings and chorused greetings, the cast satirizes how faith can be marketed like a product. The Mormons’ optimism, no matter the rejection, delivers a cheery yet biting social commentary.Irony and Delivery
The repeated line, “This book will change your life,” evolves from sincerity to a hilariously robotic mantra. The musical structure mirrors the rigidity of their training and doctrine. But beneath the smiles is growing absurdity. One elder breaks into French, Spanish, Mandarin, while another quips, “Have fun in Hell!”—a moment where the overly polite mask slips.Comedic Layers
The song masterfully exaggerates the incongruity between divine salvation and reality. A character clumsily offers the book as “written by Jesus,” which is immediately rebuked as “making things up again.” This clash between script and improvisation hints at deeper tensions in missionary identity and the religion’s complexities.Staging and Ensemble Dynamics
The ensemble choreography mirrors military precision—each elder a cog in the missionary machine. Yet, the individuality seeps through, notably Elder Cunningham’s awkward enthusiasm and Elder Price’s self-assured tone. Their juxtaposition becomes the comedic and thematic backbone of the show.Which songs share same themes?
- "Tradition" from Fiddler on the Roof: This Broadway opener also establishes religious themes and character roles. While it treats faith more seriously, both songs define societal structures and belief systems in memorable, catchy ways.
- "Belle" from Beauty and the Beast: Much like "Hello!", it’s an ensemble introduction where everyone interacts with the audience to explain their world. The cheerful delivery veils complexity and tension beneath the surface.
- "Springtime for Hitler" from The Producers: Both songs use cheerful melodies to present outrageous or controversial subjects. “Hello!” masks religious critique under glittery choreography; "Springtime" does the same with political satire.
Questions and answers.
- What is the purpose of using “Hello” as the central word?
- It humorously underscores the politeness and formulaic nature of missionary outreach, turning the greeting into a comedic weapon of repetition and awkwardness.
- Why is the song multilingual?
- The varied languages reflect global outreach but are exaggerated to emphasize performative enthusiasm. It mocks the oversimplification of complex cultural encounters.
- What makes this an effective opening number?
- It instantly defines tone, characters, and theme while packing humor, melody, and motion. It’s infectiously upbeat while subtly setting the stage for deeper critiques of faith and identity.
Which awards and chart positions did the composition achieve?
- The musical album including "Hello!" won the Grammy for Best Musical Theater Album.
- The show swept the Tony Awards with nine wins, including Best Musical and Best Original Score.
- "Hello!" became one of modern musical history's most iconic Broadway opening numbers.
Fan and media reactions.
“One of the best openings in musical theatre history. The harmonies, the comedy, the timing—it’s pure Broadway magic.”Anonymous Theater Enthusiast
“The satire is as sharp as the choreography. Every 'Hello!' lands like a punchline.”Musical Commentator
“Josh Gad and Andrew Rannells deliver perfection in comedic timing and character work.”Stage Critic
“Saw it live—this song got a standing ovation before the second number even began.”Audience Member
“Every doorbell ring is like Pavlov's bell to laughter. Genius writing.”Broadway Blogger "Hello!" remains a fan favorite for its irresistible charm, razor-sharp wit, and energy. It turned awkward small talk into a Broadway phenomenon and launched a musical that continues to thrill, offend, and delight in equal measure.