PARADE at Ford's Theatre

[MusicAndPassion]

Posted: 10/16/11 at 9:14am

This production is by far one of best things I've ever witnessed on the stage. It was my first exposure to the musical, but there's something about this particular production that makes it a spectacular experience that must not be missed!

The confederate issues, themes and the overall debate of prejudice being performed just feet away from the very booth where President Lincoln was shot creates an eerie ode to the vision the President stood for. The aestheticism presented right there is worth the price of admission.

The musical fits the space space. It's an intimate show in terms of the characters and the audience's experience with them, and the theatre allows your to feel as if you're right there peering through the prison cell bars to watch the Franks meet. You feel as if you're there with the reporters accusing Leo of the murder.

The orchestra is fantastic and the musicality of the performers surpass those of performers you'd find on Broadway. This production is one of the reason regional theatres across the country contain some of the best performances around.

Euan Morton's portrayal of Leo Frank is humble, heartbreaking and perfect. There's not a single thing off about his singing, his accent, his look and his acting. Jenny Fellner compliments Morton's performance with a soaring voice that conquers Jason Robert Brown's score. Kevin McAllister brings the big-Broadway voice that most performers share nightly on the Great White Way, except his performance is sophisticated and brilliant that you can't help but wonder where he'll end up next.

The only problem with the production is that the actress playing Mary Phagen is too old to portray a 13 year old girl, however, she does the best she can and the audience forgives rather than settles.

If you are lucky enough to catch this production before it closes at the end of the month then do so. You will not regret it, especially if it's your first exposure to the musical.

[JeanneMarie]

Posted: 10/16/11 at 9:34am

I also loved this show and actually saw it twice. I was surprised by some of the reviews. It was as if some reviewers didn't actually see the same show or maybe saw the first few minutes and then left. The reality is that it is a show that sticks with you long after the lights go down. Also agree that Kevin McAllister has a great future on Broadway. Spectacular voice and presence.

[DottieD'Luscia]

Posted: 10/16/11 at 9:46am

I'm going next Friday night. Most performances for next week are on Goldstar.

[ReggieonBway]

Posted: 10/16/11 at 9:54am

It's funny, because I know the girl who plays Mary Phagan - she totally looks like she could be thirteen in person, but she reads as older onstage for whatever reason.

Anyway - great review, totally agree with it. As someone who was for the most part unfamiliar with Parade, it was a great first experience.

[Famebroadway2]

Posted: 10/16/11 at 10:11am

I'm Going tonight! I can't wait to finally see this show onstage!

[iflip4musicals]

Posted: 10/16/11 at 10:23am

going next Sunday and I'm taking my little cousin, so excited! The under 30 (35?) tickets are great!

[minicko88]

Posted: 10/18/11 at 1:56am

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aoJ6H86-1ek&feature=related

Is this guy for real? Did this guy seriously just question the tony award winning book and score? Of all things, he questions the two most celebrated things about? this musical. Interesting...

[CATSNYrevival]

Posted: 10/18/11 at 2:46am

I think they make some valid arguments. It's a bit naive to suggest that a Tony Award negates all questions of quality. They're questioning a show that the authors themselves went back and revised after those Tony wins. Clearly, the show isn't perfect.
Updated On: 10/18/11 at 02:46 AM

[RippedMan]

Posted: 10/18/11 at 3:16am

I wish it would extend.

[minicko88]

Posted: 10/18/11 at 11:16am

But thats not my point... These are the two issues that they seem to be questioning about the show. I do think there are multiple flaws... I just find it amusing that the two biggest problems they have are the issues which won them Tonys many years ago. Clearly it isn't perfect...

[newintown]

Posted: 10/18/11 at 11:34am

Did this guy seriously just question the tony award winning book and score?

Awards should never be discussed out of context. Parade's competition that year was:

Book: It Ain't Nothin' But the Blues, Marlene, Footloose
Score: Footloose (jukebox show), The Civil War (just awful), Twelfth Night (which wasn't even a musical)

And note that Parade didn't win Best Musical. Personally, I find the show well-intentioned, but don't think Brown has what it takes to write a score with enough depth to do the story the justice it deserves.