Jason Robert Browne’s Tony Award-winning true story musical ‘Parade’ will play to Sydney audiences in May 2024.
The Sydney season follows the show’s Broadway revival in 2023, and a sell-out Melbourne season. ‘Parade’ is a true story about an unsolved murder that divided a nation, with a book from acclaimed playwright Alfred Uhry, and a rousing, colourful and haunting score from Jason Robert Brown.
It’s an examination of one of the darkest episodes of America’s history.
‘Parade’ is set in early 20th century Atlanta, following Leo Frank, a Brooklyn-raised Jew who is put on trial for the murder of a 13-year-old. Undercurrents of racism and bigotry, and a mistrial, result in Frank’s condemnation by a conservative community still grappling with the aftermath of the 1906 Atlanta race riots.
Frank’s fate is sealed by the falsification of facts and evidence, along with a janitor’s false testimony.
Sydney-based actor Aaron Robuck will reprise the role of Leo Frank, and singer-songwriter Montana Sharp will reprise the role of Lucille Frank.
“As a Jewish actor, I feel incredibly privileged to be able to be part of the important conversation that this show initiates,” Aaron says. “I see the ripples of Leo’s story, now 110 years after his death, in my own story and in the world around me – and the fact that I will be able to share this with my hometown in 2024 is something I’m incredibly grateful for.”
‘Parade’ is directed by Mark Taylor.
“Bringing this production of ‘Parade’ to Sydney in 2024 is thrilling for us as a company,” Mark says. “Now, more than ever before, it feels vitally important to breathe new life into this story. A story that acts as a cautionary tale about the dangers of prejudice, fear and the misuse of power.”
‘Parade’ plays Seymour Centre (Sydney) from 9 May, 2024.
