The Power of Storytelling: Inside the Emotional Heart of 'Ragtime'

When History Becomes Personal

Walking into the theater where Ragtime first made its mark, I was struck not just by the grandeur of the production but by the palpable sense that something deeply human was unfolding on stage. It's a feeling that resonates strongly with those who've experienced the musical's journey – including actors like Brandon Uranowitz, Joshua Henry, and Caissie Levy, all of whom were recently featured in an extended interview for CBS News.

What stands out about this conversation is how these performers didn't just discuss their roles; they reflected on how Ragtime has become a mirror to their own lives and the broader American narrative. It's rare to find such emotional depth in any artistic endeavor, let alone one that spans nearly a century of storytelling.

Brandon Uranowitz: The Voice of Resilience

As a Tony Award-nominated actor, Brandon Uranowitz brings his own understanding of struggle and perseverance to the role of Tateh. His experience with Ragtime, which he describes as both "challenging" and "transformative," speaks to the musical's ability to create a bridge between past and present.

"This show isn't just about telling stories from history," Uranowitz said during our conversation. "It's about asking what it means to be part of something larger than ourselves – especially when that something includes people who have been marginalized or overlooked."

His words resonate with anyone who has ever felt invisible or underestimated, and they illustrate how Ragtime isn't just a historical piece but a deeply personal one.

Joshua Henry: From Song to Story

Joshua Henry's portrayal of Coalhouse Walker Jr. brings passion and urgency to the stage, reflecting the intense social commentary woven throughout the musical. Henry emphasizes how the show's themes remain urgent even today – particularly around racial justice, inequality, and community solidarity.

"When I was first cast, I didn't fully understand how much this story would resonate with me personally," Henry shared. "But as we've continued to perform it, I realize that the pain and hope expressed in these characters is something everyone can relate to – regardless of race or background."

His perspective adds another layer to Ragtime's power: not just its emotional impact but its role in sparking difficult conversations that continue to matter in our society.

Caissie Levy: The Heart of a Nation

Caissie Levy's performance as Mother represents the quiet strength that often goes unnoticed in moments of upheaval. Her portrayal captures not only the personal but also the collective trauma and resilience that defines the American experience.

"I've always believed that theater is about empathy," Levy said. "And in Ragtime, we're not just presenting a story – we're inviting people into a moment of deep reflection, where they can see themselves reflected in these characters and their struggles."

Her insight highlights how powerful storytelling isn't just about entertainment; it's about connection, understanding, and healing.

The Legacy of a Musical

Ragtime, based on E.L. Doctorow's novel, was originally produced in 1998 by the Roundabout Theatre Company. Since then, it has undergone several iterations, including a Broadway revival that earned Tony nominations for its performers and creators. The musical is known for its sweeping narrative, combining historical figures with fictional ones to depict life in early 20th-century America – particularly focusing on themes of immigration, class, race, and gender.

What makes this production so enduring is how it allows audiences to step into a world that feels both distant and immediate. It reminds us that while time moves forward, the fundamental human experiences – love, loss, fear, hope – remain unchanged across generations.

Why 'Ragtime' Still Matters Today

In an age where political discourse often polarizes society, Ragtime offers a unique vantage point: one that encourages empathy and dialogue rather than division. Its message – that we're all part of the same human story – feels especially relevant now.

• Historical Context: The musical explores how societal change happens not through grand gestures but through small acts of kindness, resistance, and courage.
• Social Commentary: It doesn't shy away from difficult topics like violence, discrimination, and systemic injustice, making it a vital conversation starter.
• Universal Themes: Despite being set in the early 1900s, its core themes of belonging, identity, and community echo today's struggles.

The conversations with Uranowitz, Henry, and Levy make it clear that Ragtime isn't just about history – it's a living, breathing piece of art that continues to evolve and speak to new audiences. Their reflections offer insight into how a musical can serve as more than entertainment – it can be a catalyst for change.

A Look Forward

As we continue to grapple with questions about race, justice, and equality in America, Ragtime serves as both a reminder of progress made and a call to action for what's yet to come. Its revival has shown that there's still hunger for stories that challenge us, inspire us, and connect us across divides.

Whether you've seen the show or not, I encourage you to consider what it means to tell stories that matter – especially those that help us understand our shared humanity. In a time when we need unity more than ever, perhaps there's no better way to start than by sitting in the dark and listening to the echoes of history.

The power of Ragtime lies not just in its music or choreography but in its ability to make us remember that our stories are part of a much bigger one.