Shining a light: Parade retells a dark chapter in American history
Many musicals lack narrative depth but the Tony Award-winning Parade is a hard-hitting and poignant story that is very much for our times.
Not all musicals are light and fluffy. Parade, for example, is a powerful and gripping theatrical journey – and it’s coming to Brisbane for a three-week season from July 19.
Playing the Ron Hurley Theatre at Seven Hills Hub in Brisbane, the Bump In Productions presentation is set against the backdrop of early 20th-century Georgia, in the southern US.
Parade tells the true story of Leo Frank, a Jewish factory manager wrongly accused of the murder of a 13-year-old girl. Through its evocative score and riveting narrative, Parade explores both the darkest depths and most inspirational heights of human nature, illuminating themes of historical injustice and personal redemption.
Parade remains a powerful and poignant examination of a shameful chapter in human history
With a score celebrated for its emotional depth – from haunting ballads to stirring anthems – Parade has left a lasting mark on the musical theatre canon. It won Tony Awards for Best Score and Best Book in 1998 and Best Revival in 2023.
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Praised for its courageous storytelling and nuanced exploration of complex social issues, Parade remains a powerful and poignant examination of a shameful chapter in human history.
Established in Sydney in 2004, Bump In Productions has been redefining Australian musical theatre by staging award-winning Broadway and West End shows that local producers have neglected, winning popular and critical acclaim along the way!
This production is directed by musical theatre veteran Johnny Peek (Rent, Sweeney Todd, The Merry Widow), with musical direction by Michael Keen (The Rake’s Progress, A Little Night Music, Suor Angelica), and choreography by regular QPAC collaborator Maureen Bowra (Xanadu, Little Shop of Horrors, Good Morning Vietnam national tour), with set design by David Lawrence and costumes by Kate Campbell-Westerway.
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Michael and Belinda Lewis as Lucille and Leo Frank
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David McLaughlin as Govenor John Slaton
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Mabel Tamone as Mary Phagan
The cast is led by veteran musical theatre couple Michael and Belinda Lewis – the founding forces behind the company – as Leo and Lucille Frank. They are joined by Casey Martin, Chris Herden, Jay Monck, Alex Watson, David McLaughlin, Beau Wykes, Matthew McKenzie, Ashton Simpson, Nicole Kaminski, Mabel Tamone, Carly Bettinson, Paige McKay, Lucy Ross, Mina Aanat and Chris White.
Michael Lewis says what makes Parade so palpably real is “that its protagonist isn’t particularly likeable … his journey isn’t so much about his innocence, as becoming a better person in the face of mindless hatred”.
Adds Belinda Lewis: “At the heart of Parade is one woman’s unwavering strength and love for her husband. In a time of rising prejudice, this story feels more urgent and relevant than ever.”
Director Johnny Peek agrees: “Parade is simply wonderful and necessary,” he says. “It elevates and inspires us.”
Parade plays the Ron Hurley Theatre, Seven Hills Hub, 28 Tallowwood St, Seven Hills, July 19 to August 3; tickets at trybooking.com/CZKWD