LOS ANGELES – Michael Arden’s Tony-winning revival of the acclaimed musical “Parade” has opened at the Ahmanson Theatre in Los Angeles, bringing a searing account of a historical miscarriage of justice to the forefront of the city’s theatrical scene.
The production, with music and lyrics by Jason Robert Brown and a book by Alfred Uhry, delves into the deeply troubling events surrounding the 1913 trial of Leo Frank. Frank, a Jewish factory manager in Georgia, was unjustly convicted of murdering 13-year-old Mary Phagan. The case, steeped in prejudice and manipulation, serves as the central narrative of the musical, offering a potent examination of the flaws inherent in the criminal justice system and the dark undercurrents of American history.
A Dark Chapter on Stage: The Story of Leo Frank
The narrative of “Parade” hinges on the trial of Leo Frank following the death of Mary Phagan. The prosecution’s case against Frank relied on what is widely regarded as shoddy evidence and was heavily influenced by the tactics of a prosecuting attorney who skillfully exploited the prevalent prejudices of the jury. Despite the questionable foundation of the evidence presented, Frank was ultimately found guilty and sentenced to death.
The musical meticulously traces the sequence of events that followed, highlighting Frank’s failed appeals to overturn his conviction. In a pivotal moment following these legal setbacks, the state’s governor ultimately commuted Frank’s death sentence, acknowledging doubts surrounding the conviction.
However, this commutation did not bring an end to the tragic saga. Instead, Frank was subsequently kidnapped from prison by a mob. In a brutal act of vigilantism that shocked the nation, he was lynched.
From Broadway to Los Angeles: The Acclaimed Revival
The original 1998 production of “Parade” was met with significant critical acclaim, earning multiple Tony Awards, including those for Brown’s compelling score and Uhry’s powerful book. Despite its artistic success and accolades, the musical was often described as a “difficult sell” due to its somber subject matter.
Michael Arden’s revival, which garnered a Tony Award for Best Musical Revival, has reignited interest in the work and its historical themes. The production’s arrival at the Ahmanson Theatre marks a significant moment for Los Angeles audiences, offering them an opportunity to experience this critically lauded interpretation of a challenging American story.
Critical Reception in Los Angeles
Early reception for the Los Angeles engagement has been positive. A review published in the Los Angeles Times on June 20, 2025, described the production as a “gripping musical drama.” The review particularly noted how the musical effectively highlights the “dark chapter in American history” represented by the Leo Frank case and underscores the persistent “flaws in the criminal justice system” that it exposed.
The Los Angeles Times review also specifically praised the quality of the current presentation, noting that Arden’s revival is in “sharp form at the Ahmanson,” suggesting a production that is both artistically precise and emotionally resonant.
The Enduring Relevance
“Parade” remains a relevant piece of musical theatre, not only for its artistic merit but for its unflinching portrayal of how prejudice and systemic failures can lead to devastating injustice. The musical’s exploration of these themes continues to resonate, prompting reflection on historical events and their echoes in contemporary society.
The production at the Ahmanson Theatre offers Los Angeles audiences a potent and timely reminder of the complexities of justice, the dangers of unchecked prejudice, and the enduring power of truth in the face of historical distortion. It stands as a significant cultural event, bringing a vital American story to the stage with powerful musical and dramatic force.
