<< Back 9/18/02 HART brings in N.Y. actor for ‘Parade’ SMN The Haywood Arts Repertory Theatre’s next production will mark the first time the theater has brought in a guest star. New York’s Rudy Roberson, who also appeared earlier this summer at S.A.R.T., will play the role of Jim Conley in the musical “Parade,” an epic telling of the murder of Mary Phagen and the trial of Leo Frank. Roberson has appeared on Broadway in Cy Coleman’s “The Life,” “Katt and the Kings,” and “Rollin’ On The T.O.B.A.” and off Broadway in the award winning “Floyd Collins.” His other credits include television appearances on “Law & Order” “100 Center Street”; “Sesame Street”; “One Life to Live”; “Loving” and “Guiding Light.” Roberson will play the role of Conley, the African-American workman who many now believe was the actual murderer of Mary Phagen. Phagen, a 13-year-old employee of the National Pencil Factory in Atlanta, was found dead in the company’s basement in 1913. Leo Frank, a Brooklyn born Jew who worked as a company manager, was accused of the crime and the trial became a national scandal. Conley, testifying for the prosecution, helped convict Frank. Roberson was approached about playing the role of Conley after auditions and an extensive search of the area failed to turn up an actor who could take on the difficult role. During his stay in Waynesville Roberson will present a special concert of material he regularly performs in New York nightclubs on Oct. 6 at the Performing Arts Center. He will offer classes in mime, stage combat, acting and movement and will also appear as a guest soloist at several area churches. “Parade” is directed by Steve Lloyd and the musical director is Chuck Taft. Performances are at 7:30 p.m., Sept. 27, 28, Oct. 4, 5, 11 and 12 and at 3 p.m. Sept. 29 and Oct. 13 at the Performing Arts Center in Waynesville. Tickets are $15 for adults, $12 for seniors and a special $4 discount ticket for students. Call 456.6322.