"Ragtime": A Timeless Musical

The Revival of a Musical Classic

As I stood in the Morgan Library's grand halls, once built by financier J.P. Morgan at the turn of the 20th century, I was struck by how perfectly the setting matched the themes of the musical now playing in its revival: Ragtime. For Tony Award nominees Brandon Uranowitz, Caissie Levy, and Joshua Henry, this historic venue represents not only the opulence of the Gilded Age but also the dramatic potential of American history. "There was just, like, a lot of change happening," Uranowitz observed, pointing to how any transformation inherently brings conflict—and drama.

"This show is very much a return to the tradition of people singing about big emotions, primary emotions. It's a very noble show. It's a big story. It says, `Here's my heart.'" – Terrence McNally

The revival brings to life the stories of three distinct groups of people in America who each pursue their own version of the American Dream, yet whose journeys inevitably collide and influence one another. Mother, played by Levy, represents the wealthy suburban matriarch; Coalhouse Walker, a successful ragtime pianist, portrayed by Henry; and Tateh, an immigrant from Eastern Europe, played by Uranowitz.

The Enduring Power of 'Ragtime'

The original production, which debuted on Broadway in 1998 with Brian Stokes Mitchell and Audra McDonald, was a critical success. At the time, Terrence McNally, one of the musical's creators, described it as a return to traditional storytelling that emphasized raw emotion. Now, more than two decades later, this revival is resonating strongly with contemporary audiences.

Joshua Henry shared how, while studying musical theater at the University of Miami in 2002, "Ragtime" was among his first cast recordings to captivate him: "I remember being in the music library listening to 'Wheels of a Dream,' and I remember thinking, 'I want to be a part of epic storytelling like that. I want to be one of those performers that makes people feel deep feelings.'"

The musical was adapted from E.L. Doctorow's novel by writer Terrence McNally, with lyrics by Lynn Ahrens and music by Stephen Flaherty. Their personal experiences contributed significantly to the work's authenticity. Flaherty, who studied at a music conservatory and was once part of a ragtime band called The Fleeting Moments Waltz and Quickstep Orchestra, had a deep understanding of the era's musical landscape. Meanwhile, Ahrens' early career in educational programming such as "Schoolhouse Rock" helped prepare her for storytelling that centers around themes of immigration and cultural identity.

Resonance with Today's World

Both Ahrens and Flaherty feel this revival has struck a chord. "This one, it's its third time on Broadway, and this one I think is the most emotional of all," Ahrens remarked. The musical's themes are proving particularly relevant today, as audiences connect to the immigrant experience, racial tensions, and the pursuit of equality that were once central to the American narrative.

"I think why 'Ragtime' is having a moment right now, you know, our world and our country, it's very fractured right now. And the themes and the stories and the characters in 'Ragtime' are represented out in the street." – Caissie Levy

Brandon Uranowitz, who plays Tateh, an Eastern European immigrant, noted how current immigration issues make the story timely: "I play a Jewish immigrant from Eastern Europe, but I think so much of the immigration story is speaking to people right now, because of the immigration issues happening in our country literally at this moment."

Director's Vision and Emotional Impact

Director Lear deBessonet, who is also a Tony nominee, emphasized that despite being set over a century ago, the musical remains deeply relevant. "Ragtime allows us to reconnect with our deepest feelings about the actual love that we have for this country, and how deeply we want it to achieve the promises that it set out to, even if it has not fully achieved them yet, and that we are still believing in hope. That isn't pretending that everything is okay. It's holding the pain. But it's moving forward in hope."

The musical's power lies in its ability to present complex narratives through the lens of American identity—offering both critique and celebration. Its central message speaks to audiences today not only as historical reflection but also as a mirror for current social issues.

Artistic Collaboration and Legacy

The success of this revival is built on years of collaboration between Ahrens, Flaherty, and McNally. Together, they created a work that transcended its time, offering a complex yet accessible narrative about the American experience. As the musical continues to draw critical acclaim and enthusiastic audiences, it serves as a reminder that powerful storytelling remains timeless when rooted in truth and emotional depth.

The musical's legacy is not just artistic but also cultural. It provides a space where diverse perspectives can coexist within a single story—one that reflects both triumph and tragedy, hope and heartbreak, all woven together with the rhythm of American life itself.

Looking Ahead

As we approach the 250th anniversary of American independence, "Ragtime" offers a timely opportunity to reflect on what it means to be American today. Its enduring relevance is not merely coincidental but rather a testament to the ongoing struggle to live up to ideals that have always been aspirational yet incomplete.

With its strong cast, compelling music, and emotionally resonant themes, this revival of "Ragtime" stands as more than just entertainment. It's an essential cultural touchstone—a reminder of our shared humanity and the stories we tell about who we are and who we aspire to become.