A Decade and a Half on Broadway: John Eric Parker's Enduring Run

John Eric Parker has been a fixture in the Broadway production of “The Book of Mormon” since its highly anticipated debut in 2011. Fifteen years later, he remains a happy and vital part of the cast at The Eugene O’Neill Theatre.

Parker confirmed his continued commitment, stating, “I’m still here. I feel still very much viable. I still feel like I’m having a good time and I’m doing good work.” He emphasized that the moment the show ceases to bring him significant joy will be his cue to depart.

Mentoring Newcomers and Finding Joy

The actor, who also boasts Broadway credits including “All Shook Up” and “Rent,” offers guidance to new cast members only if they seek it out. He believes in allowing others to discover their own connection to the material.

“I don’t push myself or what I know on other actors because I feel like they have to be afforded the opportunity to find it for themselves,” Parker explained. He added that the show is strong enough to guide those who commit to the experience.

Producer Praises Parker's Dedication

Producer Anne Garefino expressed her gratitude for Parker's long-term commitment to the production. She described him as “a rock, but without being pushy about it.”

Garefino noted, “I’m honored that he has stayed this long because he’s talented, he’s got a gorgeous voice.” She acknowledged that while other opportunities exist, Parker has firmly established his place with their show.

Navigating Personal Challenges and Career Highs

The opportunity to join “The Book of Mormon” arose during a difficult period for Parker, following the unexpected passing of his sister and his mother’s Alzheimer's diagnosis. He described his emotional state at the time as having “pretty thin” skin.

Parker was simultaneously involved in workshops for two major musicals: “Memphis” and the show that became “The Book of Mormon.” He worked on both productions concurrently.

Two Tony Wins in Consecutive Years

“Memphis” opened first in 2009, and Parker was part of the cast that secured the Tony Award for Best New Musical in 2010. Just months later, “The Book of Mormon” premiered, earning the same prestigious award in 2011.

Parker reflected on this unprecedented success, questioning, “It was like a lightning striking twice in a row, which is like, ‘When does that ever happen? How does that ever happen?’”

The Cultural Impact of 'The Book of Mormon'

“The Book of Mormon,” which centers on two missionaries in Uganda, was created by Trey Parker and Matt Stone (of “South Park”) alongside Robert Lopez (“Avenue Q”). Upon its 2011 opening, the musical became an immediate cultural phenomenon.

Parker recalled the intense energy of the early performances, noting that by opening night, he felt certain the show would be significant. He once observed a theater audience that included celebrities like Steve Martin, Robin Williams, Whoopi Goldberg, Tom Hanks, and Rita Wilson.

Stability Fosters New Opportunities

While cast members have rotated over the years, Parker remained a constant presence, returning after taking time off for personal events like his mother's passing and his marriage, as well as for other projects like “Tales of the City.” He affectionately refers to his dressing room at the Eugene O’Neill Theatre as “my Midtown office.”

He credits this stability with freeing him to engage in philanthropic work. Parker serves on the boards for Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS and Broadway Inspirational Voices. He believes that being “tethered to something allows me... to bungee jump even more.”

An Evolving Organism

Parker observes that the show itself has adapted alongside societal shifts. Initially focused on faith, it began to represent the pure joy of theater following the pandemic.

He noted audience reactions shifting to certain lines following movements like #MeToo and Black Lives Matter, concluding that “Art continues to surprise me... It is still a living, breathing organism.” Parker recently embraced the moniker “last man standing” after being inspired by his 78-year-old uncle.