Bump In Productions

The Tony Award-winning Parade: The Musical returns to Brisbane at the Ron Hurley Theatre in Seven Hills, recounting the true and tragic story of Leo Frank (Michael Lewis), a Jewish factory manager in Atlanta, Georgia, who was wrongfully accused and convicted of the murder of 13-year-old factory employee Mary Phagan (Mabel Tamone).

The case—and its aftermath—exposed deep-rooted antisemitism, stark regional divisions, and widespread injustice in early 20th-century America. This pivotal moment in U.S. history not only intensified the rift between North and South but also helped fuel the resurgence of the Ku Klux Klan.

Directed by Johnny Peek, this Bump In Productions staging features a cast that seamlessly blends professional and community talent.

Real-life couple Michael and Belinda Lewis lead the production as Leo and Lucille Frank, lending a powerful intimacy to their performances, particularly in the show’s later scenes. Michael gives a deeply sincere portrayal of Leo, the Brooklyn-educated businessman who moved to Georgia after marrying Lucille and took over management of her uncle’s factory. His involvement in the local Jewish community becomes a focal point in the courtroom scene, and his emotional depth in the final act—after conviction and while awaiting sentencing—is both compelling and heart-wrenching.

Belinda Lewis delivers a sublime performance as Lucille. Her disbelief and frustration over the injustice done to her husband drives her to take control (“Do It Alone”) and persuade the Governor to re-open the case (“This Is Not Over Yet”). When Leo is moved to a prison farm, she visits him with a picnic—this tender scene was, for me, the highlight of the show. Their connection during “All the Wasted Time” was palpable, holding the audience in rapt silence.

Jay Monck gives a commanding performance as the ambitious District Attorney Hugh Dorsey, whose political ambitions hinge on a conviction—regardless of the truth.

Mabel Tamone is exceptional as Mary Phagan, imbuing the role with a childlike innocence and warmth. She is perfectly matched by Casey Martin as Frankie Epps (“The Picture Show”), a rising triple-threat performer. Both Tamone and Martin are talents to watch.

The ensemble is strong across the board, with standout moments in group numbers like “There Is a Fountain” and “It Don’t Make Sense.” Matthew McKenzie is magnetic as Jim Conley, especially during the gripping chain gang number, “Feel the Rain Fall.”

Musical Director Michael Keen brings Jason Robert Brown’s score vividly to life with the support of an accomplished live orchestra positioned offstage. Maureen Bowra’s choreography plays to the cast’s strengths, with intricate staging that immerses the audience in key moments.

Overall, Parade is an extraordinary and moving production—not to be missed.

Parade: The Musical runs through 3 August at the Ron Hurley Theatre, 28 Tallowwood St, Seven Hills QLD 4170.

To book tickets to Parade: The Musical, please visit https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1360687.

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