Ragtime follows three fictional families in pursuit of the American Dream at the turn of the 20th century: Black pianist Coalhouse Walker Jr. (Joshua Henry) and his sweetheart Sarah, a wealthy white family led by Mother (Caissie Levy), and Latvian immigrant Tateh (Brandon Uranowitz) along with his Little Girl. This gala production is led by Tony-nominated Encores! Artistic Director Lear deBessonet (Once Upon a Mattress, Into the Woods).
But there can hardly be another standout in a production that features Henry’s endless supply of vocal drama. Perhaps this “Ragtime” is so moving precisely because its most tragic character can still convince you, at least in music, that there is hope for America, even now.
About this extraordinary Ragtime revival, there’s a larger observation to be made. It impresses as having been reinvigorated for this election week. Doubtless, it was intended as such. Unfortunately, Doctorow’s novel deals with American problems yet to be resolved—racism, division, disdain for immigrants(!), too many et ceteras. The reasons to see Ragtime right now couldn’t be more pressing.
1996 | Canada |
World Premiere Canada |
1998 | Broadway |
Original Broadway Production Broadway |
2003 | West End |
London Revival West End |
2005 | Milburn, NJ (Regional) |
Paper Mill Production Milburn, NJ (Regional) |
2007 | Chicago |
Chicago Revival Chicago |
2009 | Broadway |
Broadway Revival Broadway |
2012 | West End |
Open Air Production West End |
2015 | US Tour |
Non-Equity National Tour US Tour |
2016 | Off-Broadway |
Ellis Island Developmental Concert Production Off-Broadway |
2016 | West End |
Charing Cross Theatre Company Revival Production West End |
2017 | Regional (US) |
Barrington Stage Company Revival Regional (US) |
2024 | Off-Broadway |
Concert Revival Production Off-Broadway |
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