NEW YORK (1010 WINS) — The first preview performance of a Broadway musical about a Jewish man who was lynched was picketed by neo-Nazis on Tuesday.
“Parade” is based on the true story of Leo Frank, a Jewish factory worker who was falsely accused of raping and murdering a 13-year-old girl in Georgia in 1913. A lynch mob abducted him from prison and killed him.
Neo-Nazis gathered outside the Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre to chant antisemitic slogans and harass people entering the show.
“[Leo Frank is] a Jewish pedophile,” shouted one. “You’re paying $300 to go f**king worship a pedophile,” said another.
Actor Ben Platt, who plays Frankel in the musical, responded to the protest on Instagram.
“There were a few neo-Nazi protesters from a really disgusting group outside the theater bothering some of our patrons on the way in and saying antisemitic things about Leo Frank,” said Platt. “It was definitely very ugly and scary, but a wonderful reminder of why we’re telling this particular story and how special and powerful art, and particularly theater, can be.”
The producers of the show also highlighted the importance of telling the story in the face of contemporary antisemitism.
“If there is any remaining doubt out there about the urgency of telling this story in this moment in history, the vileness on display last night should put it to rest,” said the producers in a statement. “We stand by the valiant Broadway cast that brings this vital story to life each night.”
The show opens to the general public on March 16.
Related
Related
Related
