The Book of Mormon is a Broadway musical that has been playing in Chicago since 2012. The running time of the show depends on several factors, but on average the musical runs for about 2 hours and 30 minutes including a 15 minute intermission.
What is the Book of Mormon musical?
The Book of Mormon is a satirical musical about two young Mormon missionaries who are sent to Uganda to try and convert citizens to the Mormon religion. It was created by the writers of the hit musical South Park – Matt Stone and Trey Parker – along with Robert Lopez who helped create Avenue Q. The Book of Mormon pokes fun at religion and musical theater, while also presenting thought-provoking themes around faith and doubt.
The musical opened on Broadway in 2011 where it went on to win 9 Tony Awards including Best Musical. Since then, it has launched productions globally in major cities like London and Melbourne. The first US national tour began in 2012 which is when the show first started its ongoing residency in Chicago.
What is the runtime of The Book of Mormon in Chicago?
The typical runtime of The Book of Mormon in Chicago runs approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. This includes a 15 minute intermission that divides the show into two acts.
Act 1 lasts for about 1 hour and 10 minutes. After a 15 minute intermission, Act 2 runs for approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes. This brings the total running time to around 2 hours and 30 minutes for a standard performance.
However, as with any live theatrical production, runtimes can vary slightly on any given night. Factors like audience reactions and laughter, ad libs or variations by the actors, and pacing may cause the show to run a few minutes shorter or longer.
Does the runtime differ across performances?
While the approximate runtime stays consistent at 2 hours 30 minutes for most shows, there are certain performances where the length can differ:
- Weekday matinee shows may run slightly shorter closer to 2 hours 15 minutes since these shows cater to student groups where time is limited.
- Saturday and Sunday matinees may run a bit longer nearing 2 hours 45 minutes to accommodate a wider general audience.
- Evening performances from Tuesday to Saturday stick closest to the standard 2 hours 30 minute runtime.
- The runtime can vary by 5-10 minutes in either direction based on audience reactions.
So in summary, weekday matinees trend shorter, weekend matinees go longer, and evening shows remain closest to the average. But every show varies slightly night to night.
How long is each act?
As mentioned earlier, The Book of Mormon in Chicago is split into two acts surrounding an intermission. Here is the typical length of each act:
- Act 1: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Intermission: 15 minutes
- Act 2: 1 hour 5 minutes
Act 1 establishes the characters and plot as the Mormon missionaries arrive in Uganda. This act contains popular songs like “Hello,” “Two By Two,” and “You and Me (But Mostly Me).” Act 2 features catchy tunes like “Man Up” and “I Believe” leading up to the finale.
How long do audiences have to enter the theater?
Audiences are encouraged to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to showtime to get comfortably seated. The main theater doors normally open 45 minutes before curtain.
Here are the typical door opening times:
- For 7:30pm evening shows: doors open at 6:45pm
- For 2pm matinees: doors open at 1:15pm
- For 1pm Sunday matinees: doors open at 12:15pm
Give yourself enough time to enter the venue, check bags if needed, find your seats, browse the merchandise booth, and get settled before showtime.
How long do audiences have to purchase merchandise?
The main merchandise and souvenir booth is open for approximately 45 minutes to an hour before showtime. Here are the typical opening times:
- For 7:30pm shows: merch booth opens roughly 6:15pm to 7:15pm
- For 2pm shows: merch opens around 1pm to 1:45pm
Plan your arrival accordingly if you would like to shop the merchandise selection which includes t-shirts, CDs, mugs, stickers and more. The booth may also remain open briefly during intermission on busier days.
How early should you line up to enter the theater?
You do not need to line up hours in advance for this show. Stroll up around 30-45 minutes before showtime for easy entry. Here are guidelines for different performances:
Showtime | Recommended Arrival |
---|---|
7:30pm evenings | 6:30pm to 6:45pm |
2pm weekday matinees | 1:15pm to 1:30pm |
1pm Sunday matinees | 12:15pm to 12:30pm |
These arrival windows allow ample time to get inside, find seats, and get settled before showtime. Earlier arrivals may be needed for sold out popular performance nights.
Can you buy merchandise before entering the theater?
Yes, the main merchandise booth is set up right in the theater lobby area. You can browse and shop the items for sale before entering the main theater space for the show.
Buying merchandise ahead of time allows you to avoid the intermission rush. You can also save time post-show by purchasing items before finding your seats.
What are the main merchandise items for sale?
Here are some of the most popular merchandise items sold at the Book of Mormon Chicago merchandise booth:
- T-Shirts: Multiple design options including quotes and cartoons from $25-$35
- Coffee Mugs: Unique mugs with show themes from $15-$20
- Keychains: Small souvenirs with logos and images from $5-$10
- Original Broadway Cast Recording CD: $20
- Magnets, Buttons, Hats, and More: Starting at $5
Prices vary but tend to range from $5 for small items up to $35 for specialty items. Credit cards are accepted for purchases. Cash prices may be slightly lower in some cases.
What food and drinks are available inside?
The main theater offers the following food and beverage options for patrons:
- Bars: Cocktails, beer, wine, and soft drinks
- Snacks: Candy, chips, cookies
- Ice cream treats during intermission
No outside food or drink is permitted. All concessions are handled directly through the theater venue. Make purchases in the lobby before shows or during intermission.
When does the intermission start during the show?
The roughly 15 minute intermission starts at the conclusion of Act 1, approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes into the show. Ushers will dismiss rows individually to exit the theater and head to the lobby.
Audiences have approximately 15 minutes to use the restroom, purchase snacks and drinks, or stretch your legs. A bell will ring to signal the end of intermission, at which point guests are welcomed back to their seats to begin Act 2.
Can you take pictures and videos during the performance?
Unfortunately, taking pictures or filming video during the performance is strictly prohibited. This distraction can negatively impact the experience for performers and other patrons.
However, taking photos and videos in the theater lobby areas before the show and during intermission is perfectly fine. Just be sure to turn off devices once the performance begins.
How early should you arrive for weekend matinee shows?
For weekend matinee performances on Saturdays and Sundays, plan your arrival approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour before showtime. Here are recommended guidelines:
- For 2pm Saturday matinees, arrive between 1pm and 1:15pm
- For 1pm Sunday matinees, arrive between 12pm and 12:15pm
These arrival windows allow enough time to park, find the entrance, use the restrooms, grab snacks, buy merchandise, and get settled in your seats. Adjust your arrival time accordingly if you want to purchase souvenirs or concessions.
Is there assigned seating or is it first come, first served?
The Book of Mormon utilizes assigned seating for all performances in Chicago. When purchasing your tickets, you will be able to select exact seat numbers and locations that you are guaranteed.
Ushers will check your tickets and help guide you to the correct rows. Your specific seat assignments will be labeled on the chairs themselves. This prevents the need to wait in long lines trying to get the best seats.
How crowded does the theater get leading up to the show?
Crowd levels inside the theater will vary quite a bit depending on factors like:
- Day of the week – weekends are busier than weekdays
- Time of day – evenings busier than matinees
- Time of year – more crowds during peak seasons and holidays
- Special events and promotions – can drive higher turnout
In general, arriving 30-45 minutes early is sufficient to comfortably enter, get refreshments, and find seats. Arrive earlier near the top end of windows for busier performances. The ushers do an excellent job managing crowds to keep entry efficient.
Conclusion
To summarize key points:
- Total runtime is approximately 2 hours 30 minutes including a 15 minute intermission
- Arrive 30-45 minutes early based on showtime
- Purchase merchandise ahead of time to avoid rushed intermission lines
- Assigned seating provides reserved exact locations
- Entry crowds vary so give yourself ample time for busier shows
Following these tips will ensure you have the best experience enjoying The Book of Mormon in Chicago. Let the ushers and staff know if you have any additional questions or needs on show day.