School of Theatre, Film & Television alum Clayton Lukens (BFA Musical Theatre, ’24) was recently selected to join the national touring company of The Book of Mormon. Over the next 15 months, he’ll be performing across the United States, Canada and Mexico in the ensemble and understudying the lead role of Elder Price.
With music, lyrics and book by South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone together with EGOT-winner Robert Lopez, The Book of Mormon debuted on Broadway in 2011 and has since become one of the most successful musical comedies of all time. TFTV recently caught up with Clayton.
Firstly, congratulations on this fantastic news! We know that you signed with Hell’s Kitchen Agency for representation following graduation. Walk us through the process to being selected to join this touring company.
Originally, I had an audition for the Broadway company of The Book of Mormon. A few days after my audition, I got a call from my agent, the wonderful Brian Herrick from Hell’s Kitchen Agency. He asked if I was interested in going in for a callback for the tour. The big difference in this callback was that I would have to dance. I am not much of a dancer but reluctantly agreed. It never hurts to get seen! In the days leading up to the callback, I worked with fellow UA alum Grace Gebara on the dance combo. After some tedious work on it, I became more and more confident. The callback ended up going really well! A couple hours after, my agent called asking if I could start that coming Monday. Within three days they had me start rehearsals for the tour in a whirlwind of intense but incredibly rewarding work.
Since I’m replacing an actor who is leaving the tour, my rehearsal process has been a bit unconventional. I’ve been learning the show at the helm of associate directors Leonard Sullivan and Jennifer Werner. They’ve both been so encouraging and patient as I navigate the challenges of learning a show without being surrounded by a full cast. This is the first time I’ve experienced rehearsals in this format and it is exciting and challenging all at once.
What about this show resonates the most with you?
My first experience with the show was when I saw it on tour when I was 15 years old. I was familiar with the cast recording but seeing it in person was a whole different experience. A friend of mine won the lottery for a front row seat and generously gave it to me. I absolutely adored it. Of course the show is quite vulgar but at its core it has a beautiful message of welcoming all communities that are in pursuit of helping others.
What are you most excited about as you head out on tour?
I’m thrilled to get to see so much of North America while doing what I love! I’ve already met the cast who have been nothing but kind and welcoming to me joining their traveling family. In May of this year, I get to perform at the Keller Auditorium in Portland, OR where I originally saw the show. My family as well as many of my childhood friends from community theater and school will be in attendance. Including my little brother who hasn’t seen me perform in five years!
How many cities will you perform in as part of the touring company? Will you be touching down in Tucson?
From now until June 2026, I’ll be performing in over 80 cities including stops in Canada and Mexico. In February 2026, I get to perform at the University of Arizona’s Centennial Hall. It is going to be a cathartic full circle moment as it’ll be the same stage where I graduated.
That will be a moment, and we’ll be in the audience for sure! And finally, a question we love to ask our alumni: who at TFTV inspired you and why, and what did you learn at TFTV that you value to this day?
Many professors from my time at UA have been significantly influential to my journey. Notably, Christie Kerr and Jamie Reed. They have always been so supportive and both surpass the expectations of a professor. They’re huge role models in my life who I remain in touch with to this day.
TFTV taught me that talent can only get you so far – the best results for your art come from doing your homework.