As a gift, I took my parents to see the original production of Ragtime in
1998 at The Ford Center for the Performing Arts. That theater, which
now houses Harry Potter and the Cursed Child since 2016, was later part
of a major construction project. I personally witnessed workers lift the
original structure, move it down the block, and combine it with a second
theater on 42nd and 43rd Streets to create what is now The Lyric Theatre.
This tumultuous yet uplifting story is told by a cast of Americana characters titled as ‘mother’ and ‘father’ blended with flesh and blood humans based on Harry Houdini, Evelyn Nesbit, Henry Ford and Booker T. Washington, Emma Goldman, and more: They all cross paths on the stage and throughout their lives with a sound and soul that makes this country real, raw and encouraging — it all takes place in the shadow of Lady Liberty’s torch. This production strives and thrives with a lot of fanfare that little has changed in our country since those who have landed on the island of Manhattan or Ellis Island.
RAGTIME originally opened at a newly developed theater on “The Great
White Way” with Audra MacDonald and Brian Stokes Mitchell in the
roles of Sarah and Coalhouse Walker Jr. They were nominated and
presented with several awards for their contributions to the art world. The
musical takes place circa 1906 while the patriotism lingers on. This
adaptation and remake is a salute and welcome home from the direction to
the scenic design and complete cast.
Terrence McNally wrote the book with lyrics by Lynn Ahrens and music
by Stephen Flaherty. The outcome brings the audience to their feet before
the end of the three-hour performance and it’s worth every ticking second:
The pump and pulsation of the music and historic story is under the
impressive direction and talent both behind the scenes and on the stage. The message provides the audience with hope and a desire to stay for another
hour or three.
The story is based on the book by E.L. Doctorow: The tale blends fiction
with factual characters through the history of New York City at the
beginning of the 20th century. The book is by Terrence McNally, music by
Flaherty, and lyrics by Ahrens. This story focuses on Coalhouse Walker, Jr.,
an African American man who buys a Model T Ford and sets off a chain of
events that encompass all levels of New York City society during the turn of
the century and mirrors the placement and displacement of some in society
today.
The curtain never comes down. Instead there is a parade of how we all
remain united at the very end. Ticket prices can be as hefty as they sing
about the model T Ford, but there are ways and outlets including the box
office to see this show according to your budget and wallet. It’s a must-see.
Due to popular demand, RAGTIME has been extended through the summer
of 2026. This production, under the direction of Lear deBessonet, is worth
your time and every penny that we no longer make. Expect the unexpected,
as well as a very North American tale cloaked in the red hot, vibrant white
and truthful blues.
This production is as outstanding and as impressive as moving an entire brick and mortar building down a street on the back of a flatbed truck. I know. I’ve witnessed both.
Purchase tickets at LCP
Photos: P. K. Greenfield, Frank Nicolella and M. Murphy
