The critically acclaimed musical Parade, with its compelling narrative drawn from a true story and memorable score by Jason Robert Brown, is set to open at the Everest Theatre, Seymour Centre in Sydney, in May 2024. This season follows the success of the Broadway revival in 2023, as well as the recent Melbourne season. Tickets for the Sydney performances will be available for purchase from 10am tomorrow via the Seymour Centre’s official website.
Parade is renowned for its powerful exploration of a dark chapter in American history. The book, written by Alfred Uhry, who is also known for Driving Miss Daisy, delves into the complexities of early 20th-century Atlanta, Georgia, a society marked by the shadows of slavery and the Civil War. The narrative revolves around Leo Frank, a Jewish man from Brooklyn, who becomes entangled in a controversial trial for the murder of 13-year-old Mary Phagan. The plot is thick with themes of racism, bigotry, and religious paranoia, presenting a moving examination of prejudice and injustice.
Sydney-based actor Aaron Robuck is confirmed to reprise his role as Leo Frank. Robuck, who also serves as Cantorial Soloist at North Shore Temple Emanuel in Sydney, has previously performed in productions such as La Luna, Dear World, and Rags. Montana Sharp, known for her work with artists like Katie Noonan and Kate Miller-Heidke, will return as Lucille Frank. The rest of the cast will be announced in the coming weeks and months.
Commenting on reprising the role of Leo Frank, Robuck shared:
As a Jewish actor, I feel incredibly privileged to be able to be part of the important conversation that this show initiates. 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.
Director Mark Taylor, notable for his work on Next to Normal and Rent, expressed excitement about bringing this production to Sydney, sharing:
Bringing this production of Parade to Sydney in 2024 is thrilling for us as a company. 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.
The Sydney season’s creative team also includes Benjamin Samuel as the producer, Freya List as the choreographer, Sidney Younger as the lighting designer, and Harry Gill handling set and costumes.
The season at the Everest Theatre, Seymour Centre, located at the corner of City Road and Cleveland St, Chippendale, will run from 9 May 2024, with performances scheduled from Monday to Sunday at various times. Ticket prices range from $69 for concessions to $99 for adults, with early bird and preview specials also available. Bookings can be made through the Seymour Centre’s website or by phone.
