Ahmanson Theatre “Parade”

June 29, 2025 Jeff Zimerman

Article written by Jeffrey Zimerman.

Center Theatre Group announces the acclaimed Broadway revival of Parade, winner of the 2023 Tony Award® for Best Revival of a Musical, performing June 17 to July 12 at the Ahmanson Theatre. Tickets are now on sale at centertheatregroup.org. I highly recommend this presentation.

Parade, originally premiered in 1998, is a musical dramatization of the 1913 trial of Leo Frank. In this powerful musical , the true story of Leo and Lucille Frank is brought to life. A newlywed Jewish couple struggling to make a life in early 20th-century Georgia their lives are upended when Leo is accused of a heinous crime. Based on the powerful true story of Leo and Lucille Frank, Parade showcases an unimaginable test of faith, humanity, justice, and devotion. The play examines themes of antisemitism, justice , prejudice and racism, while also exploring life and relationships in the South during the post-Reconstruction era and the early 20th century. Riveting and gloriously hopeful, Parade reminds us that to love, we must truly see one another.

It’s a big show, with powerful voices and clever staging (the raised platform makes it impossible to have a bad seat). But Parade is not an easy watch. It confronts the realities of the post-Civil War South, and while the music is compelling and there’s little spoken dialogue, you won’t be singing the soundtrack on your way home.

An article in the program notes that Stephen Sondheim turned down working on it because he didn’t want to write another “heavy” musical. It is heavy, but it’s also worth it. The chemistry that grows between Leo and his wife Lucille (Talia Suskauer) adds a relatable love story that provides some of the most poignant and uplifting moments in the show.

Parade is directed by Tony Award® winner Michael Arden, with book by two-time Tony Award® winner, Pulitzer Prize winner, and Academy Award® winner Alfred Uhry, music and lyrics by three-time Tony Award® winner Jason Robert Brown, and co-conceived by 21-time Tony Award®-winning legend Harold Prince. Leading the Parade National Tour are Max Chernin (Broadway Revival of Parade) and Talia Suskauer who will play Leo and Lucille Frank. Parade’s Tony Award®-winning director Michael Arden said, “Max and Talia are extraordinary artists who bring an incredible sense of identity and empathy to their work, rooted in their Jewish heritage. I can’t wait for audiences across the country to witness the remarkable depth, passion, and grace they will bring to their portrayals of Leo and Lucille Frank.”