Over the years the Young Venture Players have covered all genres of production ranging from classics such as Oklahoma and My Fair Lady right through to the modern. For me, nothing cements their depth and range more so than the powerful and emotive, Parade.

This unconventional musical, adapted by Jason Robert Brown, covers the racism and anti-semiticsm evident in the Georgia of 1913, when Brooklyn Jew, Leo Frank stands accused of the muder of a 14 year old local girl, Mary Phagan. Condemned by the evidence of janitor, Jim Conley, the only person to stand by him in the face of extreme hostility is his loyal wife, Lucille.

Dramatic and tense, an excellent cast keep the suspense factor at the forefront throughout and a demanding score exploits their vocal skills to the full.

There are some stand-out performances. Even though Andre-Paul Spring credits the characters of night watchman, Newt Lee, janitor, Jim Conley and Riley as being brilliant to play, it is his mesmerising transformation from the down at heel and bullied Lee to the naively confident Conley that silences and grips the audience.

Contrast this with the nervouseness of Leo Frank, played with honesty and credibility by Ben Hurley, and the dark prejudices of the era are brought to the fore.

This musical pays homage to an accomplished ensemble cast, and it’s success as such must be shared.

Highly recommended, you have until Saturday to catch up with it.