Winner of four Tony Awards in 1998, Ragtime follows three fictional families in pursuit of the American Dream: Black pianist Coalhouse Walker Jr. (Joshua Henry) and his sweetheart Sarah (Nichelle Lewis); Latvian immigrant Tateh (Brandon Uranowitz) and his Little Girl; and a wealthy white family led by matriarch Mother (Caissie Levy). These characters join a host of historical figures, such as labor activist Emma Goldman, played by Tony winner Shaina Taub. This New York City Center Annual Gala Presentation is directed by Tony-nominated Encores! Artistic Director Lear deBessonet (Into the Woods, Once Upon a Mattress).
Ragtime is a sweeping, powerful musical adaptation of E.L. Doctorow’s novel with music by Stephen Flaherty, lyrics by Lynn Ahrens and a book by Terrence McNally. Through heartrending storytelling and beloved songs like “Wheels of a Dream” and “Back to Before,” Ragtime offers an explosive and relevant portrait of America in the throes of social upheaval.
