Latest news with #Parade
Los Angeles Times
44 minutes ago
- Entertainment
- Los Angeles Times
The Tony-winning revival of ‘Parade' turns a miscarriage of justice into gripping musical drama
Leo Frank, the superintendent of a pencil factory in Georgia, was accused of murdering a young employee, 13-year-old Mary Phagan. His 1913 trial led to his conviction despite shoddy evidence and the manipulations of an ambitious prosecuting attorney, who shamelessly preyed on the prejudices of the jury. After a series of failed appeals, Frank's sentence was commuted by the governor, but he was kidnapped and lynched by a mob enraged that his death sentence wasn't being imposed. The story garnered national attention and threw a spotlight on the fault lines of our criminal justice system. This dark chapter in American history might not seem suitable for musical treatment. Docudrama would be the safer way to go, given the gravity of the material. But playwright Alfred Uhry and composer and lyricist Jason Robert Brown had a vision of what they could uniquely bring to the retelling of Frank's story. Their 1998 musical was a critical hit but a difficult sell. More admired than beloved, the show has extended an open challenge to theater artists drawn to the sophisticated majesty of Brown's Tony-winning score but daunted by the expansive scope of Uhry's Tony-winning book. Director Michael Arden has answered the call in his Tony-winning revival, which has arrived at the Ahmanson Theatre in sharp form. The production, which launched at New York City Center before transferring to Broadway, proved that a succès d'estime could also be an emotionally stirring hit. 'Parade' covers a lot of cultural, historical, and political ground. The trial, prefaced by a Civil War snapshot that sets the action in the proper context, takes up much of the first act. But the musical also tells the story of a marriage that grows in depth as external reality becomes more treacherous. It's a lot to sort through, but Arden, working hand in hand with scenic designer Dane Laffrey, has conceptualized the staging in a neo-Brechtian fashion that allows the historical background to be seamlessly transmitted. Sven Ortel's projections smoothly integrate the necessary information, allowing the focus to be on the human figures caught in the snares of American bigotry and barbarism. The 2007 Donmar Warehouse revival, directed by Rob Ashford, came to the Mark Taper Forum in 2009 with the promise that it had finally figured out the musical. The production was scaled down, but the full potency of 'Parade' wasn't released. An earnest layer of 'importance' clouded the audience's emotional connection to the characters, even if the Taper was a more hospitable space for this dramatic musical than the Ahmanson. Arden's production, at once intimate and epic, comes through beautifully nonetheless on the larger stage. 'Parade,' which delves into antisemitism, systemic bias in our judicial system and the power of a wily demagogue to stoke atavistic hatred for self-gain, has a disconcerting timeliness. But the production — momentous in its subject matter, human in its theatrical style — lets the contemporary parallels speak for themselves. Ben Platt, who played Leo, and Micaela Diamond, who played Leo's wife, Lucille, made this Broadway revival sing in the most personally textured terms. For the tour, these roles are taken over by Max Chernin and Talia Suskauer. Both are excellent, if less radiantly idiosyncratic. The modesty of their portrayals, however, subtly draws us in. Chernin's Leo is a cerebral, Ivy League-educated New Yorker lost in the minutiae of his factory responsibilities. A numbers man more than a people person, he's a fish out of water in Atlanta, as he spells out in the song 'How Can I Call This Home?' Platt played up the comedy of the quintessential Jewish outsider in a land of Confederate memorials and drawling manners. Chernin, more reserved in his manner, seethes with futile terror. The withholding nature of Chernin's Leo poses some theatrical risks but goes a long way toward explaining how the character's otherness could be turned against him in such a malignant way. His Leo makes little effort to fit in, and he's resented all the more for his lofty detachment. It takes some time for Suskauer's Lucille to come into her own, both as a wife and a theatrical character. It isn't until the second half that, confronting the imminent death of her husband, she asserts herself and rises in stature in both Leo's eyes and audience's. But a glimmer of this potential comes out in the first act when Lucille sings with plaintive conviction 'You Don't Know This Man,' one of the standout numbers in a score distinguished less by individual tunes than by the ingenious deployment of an array of musical styles (from military beats to folk ballads and from hymns to jazz) to tell the story from different points of view. 'This Is Not Over Yet' raises hope that Leo and Lucille will find a way to overcome the injustice that has engulfed them. History can't be revised, but where there's a song there's always a chance in the theater. Reality, however, painfully darkens in the poignant duet 'All the Wasted Time,' which Lucille and Leo sing from his prison cell — a seized moment of marital bliss from a husband and wife who, as the last hour approaches, have finally become equal partners. Ramone Nelson, who plays Jim Conley, a Black worker at the factory who is suborned to testify against Leo, delivers the rousing 'Blues: Feel The Rain Fall,' a chain gang number that electrifies the house despite the defiance of a man who, having known little justice, has no interest in defending it. Conley has been sought out by Governor Slaton (a gently authoritative Chris Shyer), who has reopened the investigation at Lucille's urging only to uncover contradictions and inconsistencies in the case. He's one of the more noble figures, however reluctant, married to a woman (a vivid Alison Ewing) who won't let him betray his integrity, even if it's too little, too late. Hugh Dorsey (Andrew Samonsky), the prosecuting attorney preoccupied with his future, has no regrets after railroading Leo in a politicized trial that will cost him his life. Dorsey is one of the chief villains of the musical, but Samonsky resists melodrama to find a credible psychological throughline for a man who has staked his career on the ends justifying the means. Britt Craig (Michael Tacconi), a down-on-his-luck reporter who takes delight in demonizing Leo in the press, dances on his desk when he's landed another slanderous scoop. But even he's more pathetic than hateful. One sign of the production's Brechtian nature is the way the structural forces at work in society are revealed to be more culpable than any individual character. The press, like the government and the judiciary, is part of a system that's poisoned from within. The harking back to the Civil War isn't in vain. 'Parade' understands that America's original sin — slavery and the economic apparatus that sanctioned the dehumanization of groups deemed as 'other' — can't be divorced from Leo's story. The musical never loses sight of poor Mary Phagan (Olivia Goosman), a flighty underage girl who didn't deserve to be savagely killed at work. It's exceedingly unlikely that Leo had anything to do with her murder, but the show doesn't efface her tragedy, even as it reckons with the gravity of Leo's. When Chernin's Leo raises his voice in Jewish prayer before he is hanged, the memory of a man whose life was wantonly destroyed is momentarily restored. His lynching can't be undone, but the dignity of his name can be redeemed and our collective sins can be called to account in a gripping musical that hasn't so much been revived as reborn.
Yahoo
13 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
'Harry Potter' Star Offers a Piece of Advice to the Next Actor Playing His Iconic Character
'Harry Potter' Star Offers a Piece of Advice to the Next Actor Playing His Iconic Character originally appeared on Parade. Harry Potter star is passing on some words of wisdom to the next actor to step into the role of Lord Voldemort. Ahead of the new Harry Potter TV series currently in the works at HBO, Fiennes, 62, was asked to give some pointers to the next actor who will be playing Voldemort, a role that still has yet to be cast. 🎬SIGN UP for Parade's Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox🎬 And after starring as the iconic villain in the hit fantasy film series for several years, Fiennes said the next actor to play the Dark Lord should know what they're getting into, specifically when it comes to costuming. "Make sure you can handle the long, flowing robes, and don't trip over them," Fiennes told Entertainment Tonight. "Practice your long, flowing robe walk." The Conclave actor definitely knows what it takes to play He Who Shall Not Be Named, after portraying the evil character in four of the seven Harry Potter films. He made his debut in 2005's Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, before going on to appear in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix in 2007, as well as both parts of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows in 2010 and 2011. The role of Voldemort still has yet to be filled for the new TV series, though a number of other major roles have already been cast, including the titular character (Dominic McLaughlin) and his two palsRon Weasley (Alastair Stout) and Hermione Granger (Arabella Stanton). has also signed on to play Professor Dumbledore, along with Paapa Essiedu as Severus Snape, Nick Frost as Rubeus Hagrid, Lox Pratt as Draco Malfoy, and Bel Powley as Petunia Dursley, along with a number of other notable names.'Harry Potter' Star Offers a Piece of Advice to the Next Actor Playing His Iconic Character first appeared on Parade on Jun 19, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on Jun 19, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
19 hours ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Fan-Favorite Snack Recalled Across Multiple States For a Life-Threatening Reason—Here's What to Know
Fan-Favorite Snack Recalled Across Multiple States For a Life-Threatening Reason—Here's What to Know originally appeared on Parade. The last thing anyone wants is to find out a favorite snack has been recalled. But the reality is, even the most familiar products can fall victim to mislabeling, contamination, or packaging issues. And when something on store shelves ends up compromised, it's on us to stay alert—because no one wants a recall lurking in their pantry. Last week, Meijer issued a recall on certain packages of Frederik's Dark Chocolate Almonds because they contain undeclared cashews. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the label doesn't mention cashews at all—meaning anyone with a cashew allergy or sensitivity could be at risk for a serious, potentially life-threatening reaction if they eat them. 😋😋SIGN UP to get delicious recipes, handy kitchen hacks & more in our daily Pop Kitchen newsletter🍳🍔 The recall was sparked by a customer who flagged the issue after personally receiving the product. Once notified, Meijer acted quickly, working with the FDA to address the problem and get the affected packages off shelves and out of consumers' hands. The recall includes Frederik's Dark Chocolate Almonds in black stand-up pouches sold at Meijer stores in Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Ohio, Kentucky, and Wisconsin with sell-by dates of 05/07/2026 or 05/28/2026. Also affected are 8-count, 1.5-ounce multipacks dated 05/05/ of June 16, Meijer has not received any reports of illness linked to the recall. However, the brand has shared the following product details to help consumers identify the affected packages both at home and on store shelves: Frederik's by Meijer Dark Chocolate Almonds (12 oz.)UPC: 7-08820-68730-1, Sell By Dates: 05/07/2026, 05/28/2026 Frederik's Dark Chocolate Almonds 8-count 1.5 7-19283-11923-0, Sell By Date: 05/05/2026 As mentioned earlier, consumers with cashew allergies or sensitivities are most at risk. If you have any of the recalled products, Meijer urges you not to consume them. Instead, return the item to customer service at your local Meijer for a full refund. For questions about the recall, contact Meijer at 800-543-3704 between 7am and 1am EDT, Monday through Friday. If you have health concerns, reach out to your primary care Snack Recalled Across Multiple States For a Life-Threatening Reason—Here's What to Know first appeared on Parade on Jun 17, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on Jun 17, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Prince William & Kate Middleton's Kids Steal the Show at Trooping the Colour 2025
Prince William & Kate Middleton's Kids Steal the Show at Trooping the Colour 2025 originally appeared on Parade. and stepped out during a rare joint appearance with their three kids—, 11, , 10, and , 7—for the 2025 Trooping the Colour. On Saturday, June 14, the Prince of Wales and his family took part in the annual event celebrating the birthday of the British sovereign (although King Charles III's actual birthday is on Nov. 14). 🎬 SIGN UP for Parade's Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬 For the grand affair, Middleton, 43, donned a robin egg blue outfit with a matching hat while Prince William, 42, wore a traditional military uniform. Princess Charlotte, meanwhile, rocked a light blue dress. For the 2025 Trooping the Colour, Prince Louis and Prince George rocked black suits with white undershirts and red ties. Related: Once again, the youngest prince's antics stole the show, as he showed off his toothy grin while riding in a carriage with his mom and siblings during the Trooping the Colour parade. Although King Charles III was unable to ride on horseback during the parade from Buckingham Palace to Horse Guards Parade and back amid his cancer battle, the monarch was spotted riding in a carriage with his wife, . Later, King Charles joined his elder son and grandkids to watch the Royal Air Force flypast from the balcony of Buckingham Palace alongside other members of the royal family. , 40, , 43, and their two children, , 6, and , 4, meanwhile, did not participate in the Trooping the Colour festivities amid Harry's ongoing rift with the royal family after stepping back from his duties and moving to the U.S. Next: Prince William & Kate Middleton's Kids Steal the Show at Trooping the Colour 2025 first appeared on Parade on Jun 14, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on Jun 14, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Prince William & Kate Middleton's Kids at Trooping the Colour 2025 Have Fans Saying the Same Thing
Prince William & Kate Middleton's Kids at Trooping the Colour 2025 Have Fans Saying the Same Thing originally appeared on Parade. and appeared with their three kids—, 11, , 10, and , 7—at the 2025 Trooping the Colour. And their rare joint appearance left fans saying the same thing. On Saturday, June 14, the Princes of Wales and his family stepped out for the event celebrating King Charles III's birthday. 🎬 SIGN UP for Parade's Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬 Middleton, 43, rocked a robin egg blue outfit and hat as Prince William, 42, donned a traditional military uniform. Meanwhile, Princess Charlotte donned a light blue dress, while her brothers wore matching black suits with white undershirts and red ties. After the procession from Buckingham Palace to Horse Guards Parade and back, the royal family stood on the balcony of Buckingham Palace to watch the Royal Air Force flypast. There, fans noticed the young royals' sibling antics as they waited beside their parents and other family members. After Trooping the Colour 2025 ended, royal fans took to X to share their favorite moments involving Prince William and Kate Middleton's kids—and many agreed that Prince Louis stole the show. One X user wrote alongside the brothers riding in a carriage, "Prince George and Prince Louis cracking up about something. 😂 He's a class act!😁🥰." In response to a different photo of Louis, another X user shared, "Prince Louis is always so adorable." A different royal fan wrote, "Prince Louis' little teeth are stealing the spotlight today. That cheeky smile is just too cute!" Someone else on X pointed out a photo of the royal family on the balcony of Buckingham Palace, writing, "You know Prince Louis said something funny here. So adorable! 🥰." Yet another X user noted a sweet moment involving the monarch and the young prince. "There's a lovely bond between Prince Louis and the King," they declared. "Meanwhile, someone else on X declared, "I love Prince Louis so much #TroopingTheColour," of the 7-year-old turning back to gave the crowd one last wave before leaving the balcony. , 40, , 43, and their two children, , 6, and , 4, did not participate in the Trooping the Colour festivities amid Harry's ongoing rift with the royal family after stepping back from his duties and moving to the U.S. Next: Prince William & Kate Middleton's Kids at Trooping the Colour 2025 Have Fans Saying the Same Thing first appeared on Parade on Jun 14, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on Jun 14, 2025, where it first appeared.
