Parade - Orpheum Theater - Minneapolis MN - January 22nd 2024

Parade, the musical by Jason Robert Brown, continues to resonate deeply with audiences, and its revival is nothing short of powerful. The production at the Orpheum Theater on January 22nd brought a raw intensity to this already gut-wrenching tale. Based on the real-life story of Leo Frank, a Jewish man wrongly convicted of the murder of 13-year-old Mary Phagan in Georgia in 1913, Parade explores themes of prejudice, injustice, and the mob mentality that led to a tragic miscarriage of justice.

Performances:

The performances in this revival were nothing short of mesmerizing. The role of Leo Frank, traditionally a central anchor of the show, was portrayed with exceptional depth and vulnerability. The actor’s nuanced performance brought the character’s internal struggles to life, from the isolation of being a Jewish man in the South to the growing sense of despair as he faced the injustice of his trial. The chemistry between Leo and his wife, Lucille, also stood out—her role is pivotal in humanizing Leo’s plight and offering a beacon of hope amidst the chaos. Lucille’s own journey of empowerment was beautifully realized.

The ensemble cast excelled in their portrayal of the townspeople, whose attitudes and prejudices play such a critical role in the narrative. Their vocal performances, particularly in numbers like “The Old Red Hills of Home,” were stirring, capturing both the patriotic fervor and underlying bigotry that fueled the story’s tragic events.

Staging & Direction:

Director Michael Arden’s vision for the revival was both intimate and striking. The use of the Orpheum’s space helped create an immersive atmosphere, drawing the audience in as they became witnesses to the events unfolding on stage. The minimalistic yet powerful set design—a blend of stark, symbolic elements—kept the focus on the characters’ emotions and struggles. At times, the staging felt almost cinematic, with clever use of lighting and blocking that emphasized the tension between the public and private spheres of the characters’ lives.

Music & Score:

Jason Robert Brown’s score is as haunting and beautiful as ever. Songs like “Come Up to My Office” and “All the Wasted Time” continue to shine, with the lush orchestration and vocal arrangements carrying the emotional weight of the story. The combination of intense musical numbers and poignant, quieter moments allows the score to transcend its historical roots, giving it a timeless quality. The live orchestra at the Orpheum brought a richness to the music that elevated the entire experience.

Themes and Impact:

At its core, Parade is a deeply political and emotional exploration of how fear, prejudice, and misinformation can lead to devastating consequences. The revival amplifies the urgency of its themes—especially in today’s climate—without ever losing sight of the personal stories at its heart. It’s not just about the miscarriage of justice that occurred over a century ago; it’s a chilling reminder of the consequences of unchecked bias and hatred.

Conclusion:

The January 22nd performance at the Orpheum proved to be an unforgettable experience. Parade remains one of the most potent musicals ever written, and this production brings it to life with a combination of stellar performances, impactful direction, and a score that continues to haunt long after the final note is sung. If you have a chance to see it, don’t miss it—this revival is as timely as it is timeless.