Max Chernin, a native of Shaker Heights, places a high premium on authenticity as he breathes life into the character of Leo Frank on stage in the musical production of ‘Parade.’ He’s the headliner of the current traveling production of the revived musical, scheduled for a 24-show streak in Connor Palace at Playhouse Square from Tuesday until Feb. 23.
‘Parade’ is a narrative steeped heavily in hate, manifesting through anti-Semitism and racism. This heart-wrenching true account revolves around a newly married Jewish couple, Leo and Lucille Frank, from 1913 to 1915 in Atlanta. Lucille Frank, a native of Atlanta, and her husband Leo, who managed a pencil factory and originally from Brooklyn, found themselves entwined in a narrative of prejudice and alienation.
The quiet existence of the couple is violently disrupted when Leo gets implicated in a heinous crime, yielding a whirlwind of political machinations, media frenzy, and public uproar. However, amidst the personal catastrophe faced by Leo, the narrative also explores a test of faith, hope, loyalty, and human spirit, as the couple copes with their predicament.
Chernin’s performance in ‘Parade’ features music by Jason Robert Brown that adds emotional depth and scales to the narrative. Their camaraderie, born out of shared experiences in previous Broadway concerts, blossomed further during the rehearsals and tour of the emotionally intense, ‘Parade.’
Of note, Chernin was part of the New York City Center Encores! 2022 revival of ‘Parade,’ which transitioned to Broadway by 2023. In that version, he donned the role of the prison guard, Mr. Turner, and was also an understudy for the lead role of Leo, handled by Ben Platt, in these performances.
Chernin took center stage as Leo twice during the Broadway iteration. Furthermore, he served as an understudy for the character of Leo’s prosecutor, Hugh Dorsey. Currently, happily reconnected with the ‘Parade’ community, Chernin brings a wealth of experience and comprehensive understanding to his role.
‘Parade’s’ revival on Broadway was acknowledged with two Tony Awards in 2023, for best revival and best direction, cementing its stature and significance. The creators of the musical believe that ‘Parade’ resonates much more profoundly in the current political and media-driven environment compared to its initial Broadway debut in 1998, a sentiment echoed by Chernin.
Educationally, Chernin is an alum of Shaker Heights High School and the College Conservatory of Music at the University of Cincinnati. His stint as Leo Frank in ‘Parade’ is his third Broadway appearance. At the onset of the tour, the director encouraged Chernin to bring his unique interpretation to the role of Leo, previously associated with the star appeal of Platt on Broadway.
Chernin’s Ohio roots and upbringing play a pivotal part in his professional trajectory, even more so with local support for the Cleveland performances standing strong. His family and friends, a group of 43, are all set to cheer him on at one of the performances.
Chernin’s audition for ‘Parade’ at the New York City Center was fueled by his desire to contribute to the show in any capacity. Working with the director has been a cherished experience, according to Chernin, who’s also eager to guide his fellow cast members around areas like Tremont and Lakewood.
In preparation for his role, Chernin undertook exhaustive research, which included studying the non-fictional work ‘And the Dead Shall Rise’. This extensive 700-page book by Steve Oney is regarded as the definitive guide to the Leo Frank case.
The Georgia State Board of Pardons and Parole extended a post-death pardon to Leo Frank in 1986. This came after Alonzo Mann, a former factory worker, confessed almost seven decades after the murder that he witnessed janitor Jim Conley carrying the body of Mary Phagan.
Despite the posthumous pardon, some individuals in the South, who are deeply committed to the memory of Mary Phagan, remain skeptical. Chernin indicated that ‘there are still angry people in the South that don’t believe him.’