2 out of 5 Stars

Knowing the basic outline of the plot, as we found our way to our seats for the revival of Parade, there was a droning in my head of How can this story be made into a musical? We left the show with this question unanswered.

No spoiler alert - this is history - a Jewish factory owner is falsely accused of raping and murdering a 13-year-old. He is found guilty and sentenced to death by hanging. The sentence is then commuted to life in prison, soon after which he is kidnapped from his cell and lynched. Having trouble seeing the musical potential here? Sondheim turned down the opportunity to participate and so should have I.

Given the current uptick in antisemitic displays across the land, I hoped the show would offer at least some takeaway for counterbalance. Nothing. The musical provides no redemption - Is this perhaps the point? If so, leave me out of it. It would be remiss of me not to point out what in all likelihood filled the theater. The play stars Ben Platt and Micaela Diamond who provide extraordinary performances of what I consider unmemorable numbers. Additionally, the sound was muddy. You should be aware that it was well received by the audience - big Ben Platt fans, I presume. If this in any way piques your interest, keep your eyes out for Colombine, The Musical.