Sandusky native to be in 'Book of Mormon' in Cleveland

SANDUSKY — Sandusky native Jessica Ralph has performed in "The Book of Mormon," on Broadway since 2017.But from Sept. 6-15, the 2001 Sandusky High School graduate will be closer to home with the musical's national tour.Ralph, who goes by J Nycole Ralph on-stage, will perform in Cleveland at the Playhouse Square next month. This will be her first time performing in northeastern Ohio with the musical."I'm so excited," she said. "For many of my family members, this will be their first time seeing me perform. I begged to be on the national tour in the past, but I was wanted in New York. I'm now on the national tour permanently."The musical comedy follows two Mormon missionaries and their journey to Africa, where they learn about a village's troubles with disease, oppression and a nearby warlord."It's a hilarious show and I still laugh when I watch the show myself," she said.As Ralph has on Broadway, she'll be an alternate for multiple ensemble roles in the national tour. Many of the roles involve speaking, singing and dancing parts.Other than being closer to her family for the Cleveland show, Ralph likes to explore cities in which she performs."I enjoy traveling to different cities throughout North America and experiencing different restaurants, tourist attractions, and cultures," she said. "I also enjoy seeing friends and family throughout the country that I wouldn't normally get to see."The musical isn't all about laughs, though. "It has a message of hope and unity and I think that's relevant to everybody," she said. "You're going to laugh and feel something and see the world in a better light at the end."Reach reporter Caitlin Nearhood at nearhood@sanduskyregister.com, follow her on Twitter @CaitlinNearhood and on Facebook.com/CaitliNearhoodSandusky native Jessica Ralph will perform in "The Book of Mormon" on its national tour in Cleveland Sept. 6-15.