This was a magnifient gala special at the New York City Centre – the entire reason for our special review trip to Broadway.
Set against the backdrop of early 20th-century America, Ragtime is a musical that intertwines the lives of three distinct families, reflecting the social upheaval and cultural shifts of the time. It is a poignant reminder of the struggles for justice and equality that resonate even today. The venue itself, an iconic space dedicated to showcasing innovative performances, provides a fitting home for a story as rich and complex as Ragtime. With its powerful themes and unforgettable score, this production invites you to reflect on their own societal roles and the historical narratives that shape our present.
Ragtime opens in New Rochelle, New York, where we meet an upper-middle-class family consisting of Father, Mother, their Little Boy, Grandfather, and Mother’s Younger Brother who, during the opening song, take pride in their confession of not mixing with any non-white people. Their seemingly idyllic life is disrupted when Mother discovers an abandoned African American infant in her yard, the child of a local washwoman named Sarah. Rather than turning Sarah and her baby over to authorities, Mother takes them in, leading to a series of events that challenge their family’s values and societal norms.
Meanwhile, Coalhouse Walker Jr., a talented African American ragtime pianist and Sarah’s love interest, faces racial injustice after his prized Model T is vandalized by local firefighters. As Coalhouse seeks justice through legal channels but finds himself thwarted at every turn, he becomes increasingly radicalised. The narrative also follows Tateh, a Jewish Latvian immigrant struggling to provide for his daughter, who ultimately finds success as an artist. As their stories converge, Ragtime explores themes of race, class struggle, and the quest for identity amid a rapidly changing America.
The performances in this revival are extraordinary. Joshua Henry shines as Coalhouse Walker Jr., delivering a deeply emotional portrayal that captures the character’s vulnerability and his fierce determination. His rendition of ‘Make Them Hear You’ is particularly moving, showcasing his powerful vocal range and ability to convey raw emotion. Henry’s Coalhouse is not just a victim of circumstance; he embodies the struggle for dignity in the face of systemic oppression.
As Mother, Caissie Levy – our favourite actress in the world and recently seen here leading the extraordinary ‘Next to Normal’ – offers a nuanced performance that balances strength and compassion. Her character’s evolution from a sheltered housewife to a woman who defies societal expectations is compellingly depicted. Levy’s voice resonates beautifully in songs like ‘Back to Before,’ where she reflects on her changing identity with poignant clarity.
The ensemble cast adds depth to the production with standout performances from several actors. Particularly noteworthy is Ben Levi Ross as Mother’s Younger Brother, whose journey from infatuation with Evelyn Nesbit to radicalism provides comic relief and dramatic tension. His performance captures the disillusionment of youth during this tumultuous period.
Directed by Lear deBessonet, known for his innovative approach to choreography and storytelling through movement, this production brings a fresh perspective to Ragtime. DeBessonet’s direction emphasizes the interconnectedness of the characters’ stories while allowing individual arcs to shine through. The choreography is vibrant yet grounded in historical context, effectively conveying the emotional weight of each scene.
Watching Ragtime unfold on stage was an emotionally charged experience. The music alone has a way of wrapping around you—each note feels intentional and impactful. I found myself swept away by the beauty of the score and by how it underscores each character’s journey. The juxtaposition of hope and despair throughout the show resonated deeply with me; it’s a reminder that while progress has been made since this era, many struggles remain relevant today. A warning: there is profligate use of the ‘N’ word, and similar racial epithets. Funnily enough, the American audience seemed less shocked that we were at the use of that word.
One striking moment was during Coalhouse’s confrontation with authority figures; it felt eerily reminiscent of contemporary issues surrounding race relations in America.
Ragtime is a powerful revival that deserves attention from theatergoers seeking entertainment and thought-provoking content. The combination of great performances, masterful direction, and evocative production elements creates an unforgettable theatrical experience. While some pacing issues arise in certain scenes—particularly during transitions between storylines—the overall impact remains strong. There are rumours of a Broadway transfer beyond this 12-performance special, and also rumours of it transferring to London. Please, please, let it be so.