Brisbane Season for Parade
Parade by Jason Robert Brown and Alfred Uhry returns to the Brisbane stage for the first time in two decades in 2025. This debut Queensland season by Bump In Productions, opens 19 July.
Set against the backdrop of early 20th-century Georgia, Parade tells the true story of Leo Frank, a Jewish factory manager wrongly accused of the murder of a 13-year-old girl. Through its evocative score and riveting narrative, Parade explores both the darkest depths and most inspirational heights of human nature, illuminating themes of historical injustice and personal redemption.
Parade won the Tony Awards for Best Score and Best Book in 1998, and Best Revival in 2023. Praised for its courageous storytelling and nuanced exploration of complex social issues, Parade remains a powerful and poignant examination of a shameful chapter in human history.
Established in Sydney in 2004, Bump In Productions stage award-winning Broadway and West End shows that local producers have neglected. And winning popular and critical acclaim along the way!
This production is directed by Johnny Peek (Rent, Sweeney Todd, The Merry Widow), with musical direction by Michael Keen (The Rake’s Progress, A Little Night Music, Suor Angelica), and choreography by regular QPAC collaborator Maureen Bowra (Xanadu, Little Shop of Horrors, Good Morning Vietnam national tour), with set design by David Lawrence and costumes by Kate Campbell-Westerway.
The cast is led by Michael and Belinda Lewis – the founding forces behind the company – as Leo and Lucille Frank. They are joined by Casey Martin, Chris Herden, Jay Monck, Alex Watson, David McLaughlin, Beau Wykes, Matthew McKenzie, Ashton Simpson, Nicole Kaminski, Mabel Tamone, Carly Bettinson, Paige McKay, Lucy Ross, Mina Aanat, and Chris White.
Michael met Belinda when they starred opposite each other in the Australian premiere of Urinetown, and—though they married soon after—they wouldn’t share the stage again until two decades later in Beauty and the Beast (with Belinda playing her namesake ‘Belle’). Mike says what makes Parade so palpably real is “that its protagonist isn’t particularly likeable… his journey isn’t so much about his innocence, as becoming a better person in the face of mindless hatred.”
Adds Belinda: “At the heart of Parade is one woman’s unwavering strength and love for her husband. In a time of rising prejudice, this story feels more urgent and relevant than ever.”
And, says director Johnny: “Parade is simply wonderful and necessary… it elevates and inspires us.”
Parade runs for three weeks only, Thurs-Sun - July 19 to August 3. Book now to make sure you don’t miss this gripping musical theatre blockbuster!
Bump In Productions presents
Parade by Jason Robert Brown and Alfred Uhry
Ron Hurley Theatre, 28 Tallowwood St, Seven Hills.
Info: www.bumpin.com.au Bookings www.trybooking.com/CZKWD
Photographer: Justin Marriner