Andrew Forste is a distinguished musical theater performer widely recognized for his work in the hit Broadway production of The Book of Mormon. He has most notably portrayed the role of Elder McKinley, the energetic and repressed district leader, while also serving as a versatile swing and ensemble member within the production's various iterations, including the Broadway cast and the North American tour.
In the world of Broadway, certain performers become synonymous with the stamina and precision required to keep a long-running production fresh and vibrant. As we move through 2026, Andrew Forste remains a key figure in the legacy of The Book of Mormon, a show that has redefined musical comedy over the last fifteen years. Understanding Forste's contribution requires looking beyond a single performance; it involves an analysis of the technical demands of his roles, his career trajectory from regional theater to the Eugene O’Neill Theatre, and the unique challenges of maintaining a high-energy "track" in one of Broadway’s most physically demanding shows.
The Path to the Eugene O’Neill Theatre
Andrew Forste’s journey to the Broadway stage is a testament to the rigorous training and persistence required in the modern theater industry. Like many Broadway professionals, his foundation was built in collegiate theater programs and regional productions before he made the transition to the New York circuit.
Forste is an alumnus of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where he honed his skills in vocal performance and acting. This academic background provided the technical scaffolding necessary for the varied demands of contemporary musical theater, which often requires a "legit" vocal foundation mixed with contemporary pop/rock sensibilities. Before landing his breakout role on Broadway, Forste participated in regional theater, which serves as the "minor leagues" for professional actors. These roles allowed him to develop the "triple threat" capabilities—acting, singing, and dancing—that are non-negotiable for a show like The Book of Mormon.
His entry into the world of Matt Stone, Trey Parker, and Robert Lopez’s masterpiece began with the National Tour. National tours are often more grueling than Broadway "sit-down" productions, involving constant travel and varying theater acoustics. Success on the tour is frequently the precursor to a Broadway contract, as it proves an actor’s ability to maintain vocal health and performance quality under stressful conditions.
Analyzing the Role of Elder McKinley
While Forste has covered various "tracks" (the specific set of roles and movements assigned to an ensemble member), his portrayal of Elder McKinley is his most acclaimed contribution. Elder McKinley is the district leader of the Mormon missionaries in Uganda and serves as the primary source of the show's commentary on repression and toxic positivity.
The Technical Complexity of "Turn It Off"
The centerpiece of the Elder McKinley role is the musical number "Turn It Off." This song is a masterclass in comedic timing and technical precision. For an actor like Forste, the song requires:
- Vocal Control: The song ranges from a controlled, almost conversational patter to high-energy belt sections.
- Tap Dancing Proficiency: The mid-song tap break is one of the most celebrated moments in the production. It requires the performer to transition seamlessly from a character-driven dialogue scene into a high-stamina dance routine without losing breath support for the final chorus.
- Comedic Nuance: The character of McKinley must remain sympathetic while being the butt of the joke. Forste’s interpretation relies on a "mask of cheer" that occasionally cracks, a difficult balance to maintain eight times a week.
The Role of the Swing and Understudy
Beyond his time as a principal performer, Andrew Forste has served as a swing. In Broadway terminology, a swing is an off-stage performer who is responsible for learning multiple ensemble roles (tracks). If an ensemble member is ill, injured, or on vacation, the swing steps in.
This is arguably the most difficult job in theater. A swing must know the choreography, vocal harmonies, and stage traffic for up to a dozen different positions. Forste’s ability to function as a swing in a show as complex as The Book of Mormon highlights his high "musical IQ" and physical memory. It requires a performer who can step into a moving machine at a moment's notice without disrupting the safety or flow of the other performers.
The Significance of The Book of Mormon in 2026
As of 2026, The Book of Mormon continues its historic run at the Eugene O’Neill Theatre. While the show premiered in 2011, its themes of faith, community, and the human condition have allowed it to remain relevant. Andrew Forste’s involvement represents the "new guard" of the production—performers who did not originate the roles but have been tasked with preserving the show's DNA while adding their own artistic flair.
The longevity of the show means that the cast must work harder to ensure the comedy doesn't become mechanical. Forste has been praised for his "live-wire" energy, ensuring that the jokes land with the same impact they did over a decade ago. This is vital for a production where a significant portion of the audience may be seeing the show for the third or fourth time, expecting a specific standard of excellence.
Career Highlights and Production Comparison
To understand where Andrew Forste fits within the broader context of the show, it is helpful to look at his various roles and where he has performed them.
| Production | Location | Role/Position | Notable Numbers |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Book of Mormon (Broadway) | Eugene O'Neill Theatre | Elder McKinley / Swing | "Turn It Off", "I Am Here For You" |
| The Book of Mormon (National Tour) | Various (U.S. / Canada) | Ensemble / Elder McKinley (u/s) | "Hello!", "Two By Two" |
| Regional Productions | Various | Principal / Ensemble | Various Musical Theater Standards |
The Physical and Vocal Demands of Broadway
A common question regarding performers like Andrew Forste is how they manage the physical toll of 500+ performances a year. Broadway schedules typically involve eight shows a week: one on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday; two on Friday and Saturday; and one on Sunday.
Vocal Maintenance
Forste, primarily a tenor, must protect his "mix" (the blend between chest voice and head voice). The score of The Book of Mormon is written in a high tessitura, meaning the average pitch is quite high. This requires constant hydration, vocal warm-ups involving semi-occluded vocal tract exercises (like straw phonation), and "vocal rest" during off-hours.
Physical Conditioning
The choreography in the show, particularly for the Mormon Elders, is athletic. It involves jumping, rapid direction changes, and the aforementioned tap dancing. Performers often work with on-site physical therapists provided by the production to manage repetitive strain injuries, particularly in the ankles and lower back. Forste’s longevity in the show suggests a disciplined approach to physical fitness and recovery.
How to See Andrew Forste on Broadway in 2026
For those looking to catch a performance by Andrew Forste, it is important to understand the casting dynamics of a long-running Broadway show. While principal actors are usually scheduled for every performance, swings and understudies appear based on the needs of the production.
Ticketing and Scheduling
Tickets for The Book of Mormon are primarily sold through Telecharge, the official ticketing partner for the Eugene O’Neill Theatre. In 2026, the show remains a high-demand ticket, though "rush" and lottery options are still available for budget-conscious theatergoers.
- Digital Lottery: Usually opens the day before the performance. Winners can purchase tickets at a significant discount (often around $45-$50).
- In-Person Rush: A limited number of tickets may be available at the box office when it opens for that day's performance.
- Cast Updates: To see a specific performer like Forste, fans often check Playbill or BroadwayWorld for casting news, though swings often go on with very little notice.
The Eugene O’Neill Theatre Experience
The Eugene O’Neill Theatre, located at 230 West 49th Street, is one of the more intimate houses on Broadway, seating approximately 1,100 people. This intimacy is beneficial for comedy, as it allows the audience to see the subtle facial expressions that actors like Forste use to convey Elder McKinley’s internal struggle. There are no "bad seats" in terms of acoustics, though the mezzanine offers the best view of the complex choreography patterns.
The Impact of Andrew Forste on the Theater Community
Beyond the stage, Forste is a respected member of the Actors' Equity Association. His career serves as a blueprint for young actors who aspire to work on Broadway. He demonstrates that a Broadway career is not just about "stardom" but about the craft of being a reliable, high-level technician who can handle the pressures of a multi-million dollar production.
His presence in the cast also contributes to the "Stage Door" culture, where actors interact with fans after the show. While post-pandemic protocols changed these interactions, in 2026, the tradition of signing Playbills and encouraging aspiring students remains a vital part of the Broadway ecosystem. Forste is known for his professionalism and his willingness to share insights about the industry with the next generation of performers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who does Andrew Forste play in The Book of Mormon?
Andrew Forste is most notably associated with the role of Elder McKinley. He has performed the role both as a principal and as an understudy/swing. Additionally, he performs in the ensemble, playing various characters throughout the show’s musical numbers.
Is Andrew Forste still in the Broadway cast?
As of early 2026, Andrew Forste continues to be involved with the Broadway production and the broader community surrounding the show. However, Broadway casts are subject to contract renewals and changes. It is always recommended to check the official Book of Mormon website for the most current cast list.
What is Andrew Forste’s most famous song?
His standout moment is the song "Turn It Off." In this number, his character, Elder McKinley, explains the "Mormon way" of dealing with intrusive or "un-Mormon" thoughts by simply "switching them off" like a light bulb. The song is famous for its tap-dance break and its satirical look at emotional repression.
Where did Andrew Forste go to school?
Andrew Forste attended the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL). He was a part of their esteemed theater and music programs, which have produced several successful Broadway and regional performers.
How can I get tickets to see him?
Tickets are available through the Eugene O’Neill Theatre box office or online via Telecharge. If you are looking for specific performances where he is guaranteed to be on, following his professional social media or checking Broadway casting update sites is the best strategy.
Practical Recommendations for Theatergoers
If you are planning to see Andrew Forste in The Book of Mormon in 2026, keep the following tips in mind:
- Book in Advance: Despite being a long-runner, the show frequently sells out, especially on weekends and during holiday seasons.
- Arrive Early: The Eugene O’Neill Theatre is located in a busy part of Midtown. Arrive at least 30 minutes before curtain to navigate security and find your seat.
- Check the "At This Performance" Slip: When you enter the theater, a small slip of paper inside your Playbill will tell you if any swings or understudies are performing that day. This is how you can verify if Forste is performing a specific role.
- Follow the Industry: For those interested in the technical side of his career, sites like Actors' Equity provide context on the rules and protections that allow performers to sustain long-term Broadway careers.
Andrew Forste represents the heart of the Broadway industry: a talented, hardworking professional who brings excellence to the stage every night. Whether he is leading a show-stopping tap number or supporting the ensemble from the wings, his contribution to the Broadway show The Book of Mormon remains a vital part of its ongoing success.
