NOTE: I filmed this on Monday, prior to the results of the US election, and at a time when I was still cautiously optimistic about a democratic outcome. The joke I make about Ragtime being the landmark moment in US politics is hard to watch now. Unfortunately Ragtime, and this production, take on devastating, enduring resonance. Til we reach that day, truly.
Hi there Mickey. I just wanted to tell you how devastated I am about what has happened with the world. Trump’s election, the continued wars in Gaza and Ukraine, the rise of the far-fight in Europe, and now Nicole Scherzinger’s posts and comments as well. I wish you and everybody else in the queer community ( and people at large) peace, safety, love and comfort. Trying times are ahead. Do you hear the people sing? Lost in the valley of the night It is the music of a people Who are climbing to the light For the wretched of the earth There is a flame that never dies Even the darkest night will end And the sun will rise. ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤Sending love from Romania
I want to echo everything Orlando has said (I just found out about the Scherzinger controversy, she shouldn't even be Norma in the current Sunset Boulevard right now). Sending lots of love, Mickey
Same here. Based on unbelievable reduction in the number of voters, questions about codes for the Dominican machines being stolen and more, I believe this was stolen, but unless the Dem powers that be insist on an investigation, I believe there will never be honest elections again.
"it will happen again, and again, and again" - a story about 120 years ago, written 48 years ago, adapted 28 years ago, still relevant to this very day. (also, I'm the person who came up and said hi in the lobby- lovely meeting you!)
I saw 'Ragtime' last night/the last performance. 'Wheels of a Dream,' 'Back to Before' and 'Make Them Hear You' all got standing ovations, at least on the level I sat in.
Your details, and information, are fascinating. You're a true creature of the theater. And for the record, I've never found any of your videos too long. Not one. I love being inside your head. Please stay just as you are.
I was there last night and it was a magical experience. I had watched videos of the show in the past and liked it, but didn't love it. Last night made me truly understand the show and appreciate it on a deep, deep level. It feels like folklore, it was exceptional.
Wow! Your description of Ragtime is brilliant. I saw the final performance at City Center and was overwhelmed, despite the fact that I had seen the Los Angeles production many years ago and was overwhelmed by it then, too. Keep up your excellent work.
I have memory that is brain burned in my mind forever. I was living in NYC in the late 90s when Ragtime first opened produced by LIVENT and Garth Drabinsky. It had opened in Toronto, followed by a run in Los Angeles and it was on its way to Broadway as the opening production of what was then the new Ford Centre on 42nd Street. I was extremely fortunate to be invited to the final audience dress rehearsal - or what is known in the industry as the Gypsy Runthrough. The who's who of the Broadway industry was there because the hype and expectation was next level. I will never forget the prolonged and protracted standing ovation after the opening number. The place went berserk. Aside from the talent on the stage... it is - for me - the greatest dramatic/musical/choreographic construction of any opening number ever. I saw it many times subsequently. So thanks @MickeyJoeTheatre. Your review brings back so many memories.
I saw Ragtime at City Center's Nov. 10 matinee. This was the 4th production I have seen. I prepared by listening to the OBC soundtrack incessantly. I appreciate when a show moves me emotionally, otherwise why bother? I started tearing up as soon as Sarah entered with her baby singing Your Daddy's Son. And I cried throughout. This was the first time I have seen any opening number stop the show. And the show stopped about 4 other times, with standing ovations, notably when Coalhouse sang. What a divine voice! I want to especially thank you for explaining the last few notes of the Wheels of a Dream finale, the huge and billowing crescendo of chords that is so thrilling on the recording. In the 4 productions I have seen, no cast has performed this crescendo ending. Your explanation makes a lot of sense in these times, that the big crescendo is very hopeful and optimistic, yet this performance pauses before the final note, and then it just ends, chopped off, aborted along with the loss of hope that reflects current events. You are right, an optimistic ending would have been, unfortunately, out of place in the big picture, both historically and currently. Some things never change. Thank you for loving this show as much as I do.
I saw this a couple of days after the election. I was front row and started crying at Your Daddy’s Son, sobbed through Wheels of a Dream (I’m sure Joshua Henry could hear me), thinking how it would have hit differently if the election had gone the other way, collected myself somewhat at intermission and cried my eyes out through act 2. I was familiar with the material but hadn’t seen the show or really known the book and I thought this was an amazing performance. I’ve followed Joshua Henry since seeing him on Shuffle Along and I got to see Ben Levi Ross in Next to Normal at Lincoln Center and Brandon Uranowitz in Falsettos but the others were all new performances to me. I didn’t miss that there wasn’t much of an ensemble or big sets. The talent on that stage and that orchestra were absolutely enough for me. I really hope this transfers because it needs to be seen by as many people as possible, especially now.
Spot on. I’ve seen many productions of Ragtime, starting with the 1996 pre-Broadway run in Toronto. It’s a masterpiece, and I’m not sure why it wasn’t more successful in its two prior Bway runs. I originally thought of it as a snapshot of a historical period, but every single one of the motifs in the show is unfortunately relevant today.
I'm so jealous you got to see this! I saw Ragtime at Regents Park open air theatre years ago and LOVED it! And I'm still trying to put myself together again having seen Casey Levy in Next to Normal last year! I would have loved to see her as Mother.
Btw if you ever see this, I was the person who just said hello to you at TMS. Thought I was seeing things, since I had just watched and commented here the day before. 😆Pleasure to meet you. Enjoy the rest of your NY trip. 😊
I saw this on Saturday for the first time. While some things didn't work for me, mainly Houdini and Evelyn Nesbitt, I loved it. I was in tears at the end of Make Them Hear You, and I'm not an easy crier.
I fell in love with this musical when I checked out the cast recording from the library in 1999. For 25 years I’d promised myself I would see it performed if I ever got the chance, and last month I finally saw it with my wife in St. Louis. The production was very good, with Broadway-caliber lead actors. It was all I had expected, and a bit more. It’s a stunningly magnificent piece of art, with epic sweep and one of the greatest scores I have ever heard.
I was down there on Tuesday and Wednesday (due to limited options for vacation time, and poor planning). After seeing The Outsiders on Tues (and getting really depressed afterwards), and Once Upon a Mattress for the Wed matinee (with certainly lifted my spirits back up), I got to see the Wed performance of Ragtime. When I put in for my vacation, it was one of the 2 shows I knew I wanted to see (the other was the latest version of Forbidden Broadway, which closed just days prior), particularly to see Brandon Uranowitz again. It was my first time seeing it performed, but I was well acquainted with the cast recording. I thought it was stunning. I've seen a few city center productions before, and I'm just fine sacrificing some stage design in exchange for the production to go all out with casting, costumes, and orchestrations. And I was not disappointed. I can't really add much more to what you've said, but did you have people giving standing ovations during the one you saw? I've been to only about 3 shows that have gotten one mid-show (and they deserved it IMO), but the Wednesday performance got 4 of them. 2 in act 1 and 2 in act 2, not including the final bows. I assume it had a lot to do with how the election turned out and how the message resonated. I was kind of surprised (but grateful) it actually didn't get another during the scene Younger Brother confronts Father in act 2. I feel that standing o-s mean significantly less with each one that happens, and I was even feeling annoyed with it towards the end, despite how much I enjoyed the performances. Not sure how common that really is though.
Thank you Mickey Jo. I've been so angry and sad since the election. Your videos always put me in a better mood. I've been binge watching both you Ellie Talks Theatre. I love Ragtime, it's even more relevant now. Sorry for the rambling.
I have never seen this show but with your reviews and all the videos out there, I can see why it is such a wonderful show. I hope to see it someday. After your delishious review, I happened upon a video of the epilogue at the end. I was a crying mess when it was over. I can't imagine what I would be if I saw the whole show in person!! Go Shania!!😍🤩 I am flying from Oregon to NYC for one day to see SUFFS's last show!🥰😪
I thought the Encores gala production of RAGTIME was tremendously good. I saw it on the Sunday before the election which, as we now know, didn’t turn out as many of us had hoped it would. The relevance and relatability of this show continues to amaze me. I wonder if we will EVER "reach that day." I've always believed that the original production of RAGTIME should STILL be running. Everything about that original production was mind-boggling. Music, lyrics and book; performances; direction; design... they could not have been better. But for some reason, it didn’t last, and it more than deserved to. Even the later Broadway revival, great as it was, couldn't find an audience. Puzzling, frustrating and ultimately inexplicable. I guess America is just not ready, willing or able to face its unfortunately racist and prejudiced past. But RAGTIME will abide, thank goodness. We'll get future revivals, whether fully produced or more concert-like. And we will be better off for all of them. It's a magnificent show.
I just discovered you yesterday! and I am having so much fun. I’m sorry I missed you when you were in New York. You walked past my building several times. I live a half block from little shopof horrors. Now to business, I saw both the original Broadway production of ragtime and the encore production this year. I did not see the revival of a few years ago. I thought the encore production was amazing. Minus the staging, I thought it had a very similar feel to the original. The performances were as good if not better. “Younger Brother” is one of my new Broadway crushes.
Ragtime is one of my favorite shows, I really hope we see more productions of it so I can go see it live!!! Edit: I also LOVE “He Wanted To Say” and Younger Brother’s whole arc. So glad you do too!!
I don’t know if I can even watch this right now. I know I need to. And I know I will. But … when? The score alone already brings me to my knees. But right now … I just don’t know. I’m gonna take a peek … ❤
I saw Ragtime in LA years ago with Marin Mazzie and Audra McDonald and most of the original cast I believe. It was an amazing show…..the story, the music, and the message all working together melding both entertainment and a history lesson. It showed how far we’ve come and also how far we still have to go. I loved it.
I adored the show. Sadly I was not at all surprised by Trump's disgusting win. My son predicted it and he is pretty much the smartest person I know. I watched the show and by the end, I was crying. We make two steps forward and then a step and a half back. Hate of those who are the slightest bit different is in full swing in this country, same as in this brilliant, painful musical. Joshua Henry was soul shattering.
I saw the original production of Ragtime (not the original cast -- it was a little while after it opened), and I also saw the production in Ogunquit in 2017. Seems like a similar sort of resonance in 2017 and now.
I saw Ragtime at City Center on Wednesday, the day after the election. Like you, the show is one of my all-time favorite musicals and the score always makes me cry, even when I’m just playing the cast album at home, but Wednesday night was particularly heartbreaking and my husband and I were crying our eyes out. We saw the original cast at least twice on Broadway and again when LaChanze replaced Audra McDonald and even saw it on tour in Los Angeles and Washington DC, although I don’t remember if LaChanz was in the touring company. I thought the City Center cast was fantastic, particularly Joshua Henry and Cassie Levy. Nichelle Lewis has a lovely voice, but I sometimes struggled to understand the lyrics. I am not a huge fan of these encore presentations and have only been to a half a dozen of them, but they always strike me as a little threadbare and this was no exception. There’s nothing wrong with a simple, economical staging, especially with a great cast, but I agree that it needs to be bumped up a whole lot if they move to Broadway. Still, I’ll take any opportunity to see this show again. One other thing that struck me when the immigrants came on stage - why do they always have to shuffle like that? I know they’ve had a hard life, but….
I went to the matinee the Saturday before closing. I thought this production was magnificent. I saw the show 6x previously (2x original production/ 3x revival/1x reunion concert). It had a whole meaning to me because of the election results, and I cried a lot. Also, in my 50 years of theater going, I had never seen Joshua Henry on stage. He was a revelation, and I can’t wait to see him in his next production. I live in New Jersey, I had train trouble getting into the city, and train trouble getting out……but this Ragtime made every inconvenience worth it.
I am old enough (and therefore lucky enough) to have seen both the original production in Toronto (with songs/moments now long cut from the show) and both the original and revivals on Broadway. I've always thought it was a masterpiece ahead of its time. It had the misfortune of being mounted the same year of Lion King. The majesty and magnificence of the original cast can not be understated. Marin Mazzie's Back to Before devastated on multiple layers. What the revival did (both at Kennedy Center) and when it transferred brought to the forefront the immigrant narrative in a way that gives you the insight of how oppression plays out across marglinalized ppl. The framing and staging and especially the choreography throughout bringing culture to the center of the production (Note I have deep bias for the revival because I have the privilege of being friends with its director). Ive seen regional productions in DC and will see the closing performance of this one on Sunday which in light of Tuesday will now just be devastating in different ways. The magic of this show is that it centers our humanity and quest for freedom in a myriad of ways and paths. I am eager for Josh Henry's performance thinking he was born to play this role back when I saw him in Scottsboro Boys.
I was at the first public performance and as a lover of Ragtime, I was not disappointed. I’d say the highlights were Josh Henry’s Make Them Hear You, and Brandon Uranowitz’s Success. With both their performances being my favorites. I also agree that Nichelle was vocally outclassed by her costar and while I wasn’t let down by her performance, I much rather would’ve seen Joy or Joaquina do it.
I had the pleasure of seeing Joshua Henry play Aaron Burr in the Chicago cast of Hamilton, and I have been a fan of his ever since. I can’t even imagine experiencing him as Colehouse. ❤️
I had bought this ticket for last Friday in the hopes that I'd be CELEBRATING the end of election week instead of being in desperate need of comfort. I knew I'd sob either way because I've adored this music since I was a kid that stumbled upon BSM and Audra singing Wheels of a Dream on the Rosie O'Donnell show (LOL HOW OLD AM I), but watching it performed live for the first time was just...so cathartic. I do agree the vocal volume could have gone up 100 notches to keep up with that amazing orchestra. And as much as I adore Caissie, I do think her belting felt off at times for Mother's character. But otherwise this was so beautiful 😭😭😭😭 I think everyone in the audience needed this show last week.
Ragtime is one of my favorite shows. I'm a retired music teacher and I have long thought that certain musicals could be used in teaching American History or CIvics class. Ragtime would certainly be most effective used this way.
I was so happy that this production was playing during my trip (Hi, tis I, the random awkward person from Schmackary's for the cookie reveal. Sorry about that.). It was amazing when I saw it on the 30th. We had people doing ovations during Wheels of a Dream, Til We Reach That Day, Back to Before and Make Them Hear You, obviously not counting the finale. There was also a loud cheer more or less after Younger Brother tells off Father in the second act. I was so intrigued, and really liked, the framing of Edgar telling Coalhouse III the story of Ragtime instead of just narrating it to the audience. And as noted, the ending with how they changed the 'dream' to a quiet moment instead of truly triumphant with how much work there is to be done. This is probably my third time seeing the show as our local theater did it both in 2003 and then in 2022 and when you get a chance to see Ragtime, you see Ragtime. The aforementioned reaction to Younger Brother telling off Father happened at our production in 2022 (we also had someone behind my dad and I being all "Yes you were" or something to that effect during either New Music or Atlantic City when Father sings 'Was I away too long?') The Coalhouse the 2nd time had actually understudied the role in the original production for the local theater. But the casting for the one at NYCC was amazing.
Hope your having fun in new york with aeron. not one of my favorite musicals but love this cast, crossing my fingers you go see shows that are closing like back to the future.
I saw the origional production in 1998, with Audrey Macdonald, an experience I'll never forget. Look at the incredible opening of that show, it's on TH-cam
I hope a Broadway transfer and eventual pro-shot happens. This production is one of the best I've seen in... forever! I'm a Canadian and angry about the US election result.
I had the opportunity to see Ragtime yesterday at the closing performance. I didn't know much about Ragtime and intentionally didn't listen to the cast recording beforehand. My thoughts basically match yours, though much more nuanced because I'm not an expert. Some of the lyrics definitely hit differently after the election, but it was so beautiful even from the back of the balcony and without much scenery.
I was fortunate to see this version and was deeply moved. This is one of the best musicals created. I thought Joshua Henry was every bit as good as Brian Stokes, Mitchell if not better in a few points.I think that Ben Levi Roos (Younger Brother) was amazing and even better than the original actor. I didn't care for Evelyn Nesbit interpretation in this version--too modern, IMO. Also, as good as Cassie Levy (Mother) was, it's nearly impossible to reach the bar set by Marin Maise. I felt Cassie's voice was not warm enough for Mother--like a flute rather than a clarinet. Both are beautiful, but I want Mother to be a clarinet, not a flute. I also felt her interpretation was too modern. without the gravitas of women's role in 1900s However, YMMV. Overall, it was an absolutely amazing show with deeply moving performances.
Update. Saw Ragtime. I loved it, although it was heavy to see at this time in the United States. There was a standing ovation for Wheels of a Dream at the performance I attended. I don’t see this transferring to Broadway.The cast is too big to be sustainable. I feel privileged to have seen it. Andre De Shields was sitting several rows in front of me. I heard him say to one of the people he was talking to that he was a big fan of Joshua Henry. You can actually visit the Morgan Library - E 37th and Madison. They have some free hours, but I think you may have to schedule times. It’s a stunning building. It includes J.P Morgan’s study, the library, a rotunda, and the Librarian’s office. They currently have an exhibition on Morgan’s Librarian - Belle da Costa Greene - as it celebrates 100 years as a public institution. Interestingly, she was black passing for white which at that time could be incredibly dangerous. She helped the Morgan become a public institution and was its first director.
In light of our recent election I think we really need a revival and this cast is truly outstanding I too love this score. My standout was the act I finale
I thought you made some interesting points, but having this be really my first exposure to the material- I loved Lear’s direction (especially considering how I tend to strongly dislike her direction of literally every other show of hers I’ve seen)
I first saw Ragtime - a show about which I knew almost nothing - a couple of years ago as a community youth theater production. I was blown away. The teenage performers were all incredible. And the political resonance of the show with the present time, coming as a surprise to me, was piercing. In mid 2022 we were struggling to heal in the aftermath of the many disasters engendered and inflamed by the previous Presidential administration, and these characters' stories felt so very, very real and present. And now, terrifyingly, here we go again. 😢 Maybe it *is* a perfect time for a full Broadway revival of the show. I would certainly be thrilled to be able to go to any professional production of it...or for that matter any community or school theater production, because the material is amazing and I just want to experience it again in any form. (Personal favorite numbers: Make Them Hear You, Back to Before, He Wanted to Say)
I am seeing the final performance on Sunday evening. Can’t wait. I’ve only seen the show once at Barrington Stage Company a few years back. It was an amazing production with Elizabeth Stanley as MOTHER, Darnell Abraham as COALHOUSE, J. Anthony Crane as TATEH and David Harris as FATHER. I had a ticket to the Ragtime 25th Anniversary Reunion Concert postponed due to the pandemic. I was unable to attend the rescheduled date in 2023 and had to reluctantly give up my ticket. I’m still kicking myself for having missed that once in a lifetime event.
I also saw that Barrington Stage Company production! It really was incredible, and I was particularly impressed by Elizabeth Stanley. I remember the production was all around great, with no weak links. I really liked the concept of that BSC production. If I remember correctly, it was the little boy in current day rummaging through an attic or toy chest - he and his family found artifacts, and the scene was transformed into the story of the show. The entire time, the audience was aware of the context of the child's view of the action, which I think helped to drive home the significance of the children in the story. I really loved that production!
Your assessment is brilliant. I loved especially your critique of the actress playing the Sarah role, i.e., although a good voice, it was not necessarily a musical theater voice. To me, as an audience member, this casting was the only wrong note in the production. I would have vastly preferred a true theater diva. Thank you for this excellent and thoughtful review.
I think the mic placement on Nichelle Lewis (at the top of her head which is right at the level of Joshua Henry’s lips) was such a hindrance during ‘Wheels of a Dream’. A lot of their staging was Joshua Henry directly over Nichelle Lewis with her mic at the top of her head and very often during this song Joshua Henry was basically singing right into her mic because of their staging and height differences. There is no reason that her voice should disappear at any point considering they’re mic’ed. At no point was she inaudible during her big act 1 solo which is much more dynamically nuanced and variable.
I might've seen you outside City Center when you saw this show and we might've seen it on the same night. Didn't wanna disturb you because you were talking to someone. But if you had a Mickey Mouse backpack and were wearing a light blue shirt, that was definitely you and you're definitely taller than I thought you were. Glad you enjoyed the show as well!
I agree about Father-he felt flattened and too unlikable, especially during What a Game. As much I would love to see it on broadway, I also agree that it doesn’t really need to a transfer. Honestly, what I really want is a cast album. I really think Ragtime needs the Les MIs treatment I.e. multiple concert productions with cast albums that are filmed and always a touring production going on somewhere.
Seeing this the night after the election was definitely something. Lots of emotion all around. Just hearing the lyrics to the first song and thinking - wow, history just keeps repeating.
I liked the show and the score. My only quibble is with the incessant need to have every single musical number end in an orgiastic explosion. Where's the subtlety?
I saw it the day after the election. I'm not sure that affected me (much) as I was already in love with this show - having seen each of the other b'way incarnations....this surpassed them both.
NOTE: I filmed this on Monday, prior to the results of the US election, and at a time when I was still cautiously optimistic about a democratic outcome. The joke I make about Ragtime being the landmark moment in US politics is hard to watch now. Unfortunately Ragtime, and this production, take on devastating, enduring resonance. Til we reach that day, truly.
Hi there Mickey. I just wanted to tell you how devastated I am about what has happened with the world. Trump’s election, the continued wars in Gaza and Ukraine, the rise of the far-fight in Europe, and now Nicole Scherzinger’s posts and comments as well. I wish you and everybody else in the queer community ( and people at large) peace, safety, love and comfort. Trying times are ahead.
Do you hear the people sing?
Lost in the valley of the night
It is the music of a people
Who are climbing to the light
For the wretched of the earth
There is a flame that never dies
Even the darkest night will end
And the sun will rise.
❤❤❤❤❤❤❤Sending love from Romania
I want to echo everything Orlando has said (I just found out about the Scherzinger controversy, she shouldn't even be Norma in the current Sunset Boulevard right now). Sending lots of love, Mickey
Same here. Based on unbelievable reduction in the number of voters, questions about codes for the Dominican machines being stolen and more, I believe this was stolen, but unless the Dem powers that be insist on an investigation, I believe there will never be honest elections again.
Many thanks for your appreciation of the show. The American Dream is over, & a pause before the word “dream” is filled by grief, & too appropriate.
I’m scared to think about these next four years! Will our Democracy even survive?
"it will happen again, and again, and again" -
a story about 120 years ago, written 48 years ago, adapted 28 years ago, still relevant to this very day.
(also, I'm the person who came up and said hi in the lobby- lovely meeting you!)
The lighting in Back to Before was the yellow, purple, and white of the women’s suffrage flag!
I saw 'Ragtime' last night/the last performance. 'Wheels of a Dream,' 'Back to Before' and 'Make Them Hear You' all got standing ovations, at least on the level I sat in.
Sending love. It’s hard but we will get through this.
Your details, and information, are fascinating. You're a true creature of the theater. And for the record, I've never found any of your videos too long. Not one. I love being inside your head. Please stay just as you are.
I was there last night and it was a magical experience. I had watched videos of the show in the past and liked it, but didn't love it. Last night made me truly understand the show and appreciate it on a deep, deep level. It feels like folklore, it was exceptional.
Wow! Your description of Ragtime is brilliant. I saw the final performance at City Center and was overwhelmed, despite the fact that I had seen the Los Angeles production many years ago and was overwhelmed by it then, too. Keep up your excellent work.
I have memory that is brain burned in my mind forever. I was living in NYC in the late 90s when Ragtime first opened produced by LIVENT and Garth Drabinsky. It had opened in Toronto, followed by a run in Los Angeles and it was on its way to Broadway as the opening production of what was then the new Ford Centre on 42nd Street. I was extremely fortunate to be invited to the final audience dress rehearsal - or what is known in the industry as the Gypsy Runthrough. The who's who of the Broadway industry was there because the hype and expectation was next level. I will never forget the prolonged and protracted standing ovation after the opening number. The place went berserk. Aside from the talent on the stage... it is - for me - the greatest dramatic/musical/choreographic construction of any opening number ever. I saw it many times subsequently. So thanks @MickeyJoeTheatre. Your review brings back so many memories.
I saw Ragtime at City Center's Nov. 10 matinee. This was the 4th production I have seen. I prepared by listening to the OBC soundtrack incessantly. I appreciate when a show moves me emotionally, otherwise why bother? I started tearing up as soon as Sarah entered with her baby singing Your Daddy's Son. And I cried throughout. This was the first time I have seen any opening number stop the show. And the show stopped about 4 other times, with standing ovations, notably when Coalhouse sang. What a divine voice!
I want to especially thank you for explaining the last few notes of the Wheels of a Dream finale, the huge and billowing crescendo of chords that is so thrilling on the recording. In the 4 productions I have seen, no cast has performed this crescendo ending. Your explanation makes a lot of sense in these times, that the big crescendo is very hopeful and optimistic, yet this performance pauses before the final note, and then it just ends, chopped off, aborted along with the loss of hope that reflects current events. You are right, an optimistic ending would have been, unfortunately, out of place in the big picture, both historically and currently. Some things never change. Thank you for loving this show as much as I do.
Thanks. I will be seeing this right before the end of the run. Excited to see this cast.
Saw the original cast, then the revival and now this opening night. This was so powerful. I hope it comes back to Broadway
I saw this a couple of days after the election. I was front row and started crying at Your Daddy’s Son, sobbed through Wheels of a Dream (I’m sure Joshua Henry could hear me), thinking how it would have hit differently if the election had gone the other way, collected myself somewhat at intermission and cried my eyes out through act 2. I was familiar with the material but hadn’t seen the show or really known the book and I thought this was an amazing performance. I’ve followed Joshua Henry since seeing him on Shuffle Along and I got to see Ben Levi Ross in Next to Normal at Lincoln Center and Brandon Uranowitz in Falsettos but the others were all new performances to me. I didn’t miss that there wasn’t much of an ensemble or big sets. The talent on that stage and that orchestra were absolutely enough for me. I really hope this transfers because it needs to be seen by as many people as possible, especially now.
It’s such a masterpiece. I can’t help but get teary listening to it right now.
Spot on. I’ve seen many productions of Ragtime, starting with the 1996 pre-Broadway run in Toronto. It’s a masterpiece, and I’m not sure why it wasn’t more successful in its two prior Bway runs. I originally thought of it as a snapshot of a historical period, but every single one of the motifs in the show is unfortunately relevant today.
I'm so jealous you got to see this! I saw Ragtime at Regents Park open air theatre years ago and LOVED it! And I'm still trying to put myself together again having seen Casey Levy in Next to Normal last year! I would have loved to see her as Mother.
Saw it last Saturday night. Absolutely stunning in every way. And I might have used several tissues. I might have.
Btw if you ever see this, I was the person who just said hello to you at TMS. Thought I was seeing things, since I had just watched and commented here the day before. 😆Pleasure to meet you. Enjoy the rest of your NY trip. 😊
I saw this on Saturday for the first time. While some things didn't work for me, mainly Houdini and Evelyn Nesbitt, I loved it. I was in tears at the end of Make Them Hear You, and I'm not an easy crier.
I fell in love with this musical when I checked out the cast recording from the library in 1999. For 25 years I’d promised myself I would see it performed if I ever got the chance, and last month I finally saw it with my wife in St. Louis. The production was very good, with Broadway-caliber lead actors. It was all I had expected, and a bit more. It’s a stunningly magnificent piece of art, with epic sweep and one of the greatest scores I have ever heard.
I was down there on Tuesday and Wednesday (due to limited options for vacation time, and poor planning). After seeing The Outsiders on Tues (and getting really depressed afterwards), and Once Upon a Mattress for the Wed matinee (with certainly lifted my spirits back up), I got to see the Wed performance of Ragtime. When I put in for my vacation, it was one of the 2 shows I knew I wanted to see (the other was the latest version of Forbidden Broadway, which closed just days prior), particularly to see Brandon Uranowitz again. It was my first time seeing it performed, but I was well acquainted with the cast recording. I thought it was stunning. I've seen a few city center productions before, and I'm just fine sacrificing some stage design in exchange for the production to go all out with casting, costumes, and orchestrations. And I was not disappointed. I can't really add much more to what you've said, but did you have people giving standing ovations during the one you saw? I've been to only about 3 shows that have gotten one mid-show (and they deserved it IMO), but the Wednesday performance got 4 of them. 2 in act 1 and 2 in act 2, not including the final bows. I assume it had a lot to do with how the election turned out and how the message resonated. I was kind of surprised (but grateful) it actually didn't get another during the scene Younger Brother confronts Father in act 2. I feel that standing o-s mean significantly less with each one that happens, and I was even feeling annoyed with it towards the end, despite how much I enjoyed the performances. Not sure how common that really is though.
Thank you Mickey Jo. I've been so angry and sad since the election. Your videos always put me in a better mood. I've been binge watching both you Ellie Talks Theatre. I love Ragtime, it's even more relevant now. Sorry for the rambling.
I have never seen this show but with your reviews and all the videos out there, I can see why it is such a wonderful show. I hope to see it someday. After your delishious review, I happened upon a video of the epilogue at the end. I was a crying mess when it was over. I can't imagine what I would be if I saw the whole show in person!! Go Shania!!😍🤩 I am flying from Oregon to NYC for one day to see SUFFS's last show!🥰😪
I thought the Encores gala production of RAGTIME was tremendously good. I saw it on the Sunday before the election which, as we now know, didn’t turn out as many of us had hoped it would. The relevance and relatability of this show continues to amaze me. I wonder if we will EVER "reach that day."
I've always believed that the original production of RAGTIME should STILL be running. Everything about that original production was mind-boggling. Music, lyrics and book; performances; direction; design... they could not have been better. But for some reason, it didn’t last, and it more than deserved to. Even the later Broadway revival, great as it was, couldn't find an audience. Puzzling, frustrating and ultimately inexplicable. I guess America is just not ready, willing or able to face its unfortunately racist and prejudiced past. But RAGTIME will abide, thank goodness. We'll get future revivals, whether fully produced or more concert-like. And we will be better off for all of them. It's a magnificent show.
I just discovered you yesterday! and I am having so much fun. I’m sorry I missed you when you were in New York. You walked past my building several times. I live a half block from little shopof horrors. Now to business, I saw both the original Broadway production of ragtime and the encore production this year. I did not see the revival of a few years ago. I thought the encore production was amazing. Minus the staging, I thought it had a very similar feel to the original. The performances were as good if not better. “Younger Brother” is one of my new Broadway crushes.
Ragtime is one of my favorite shows, I really hope we see more productions of it so I can go see it live!!!
Edit: I also LOVE “He Wanted To Say” and Younger Brother’s whole arc. So glad you do too!!
I don’t know if I can even watch this right now. I know I need to. And I know I will. But … when? The score alone already brings me to my knees. But right now … I just don’t know. I’m gonna take a peek … ❤
I saw Ragtime in LA years ago with Marin Mazzie and Audra McDonald and most of the original cast I believe. It was an amazing show…..the story, the music, and the message all working together melding both entertainment and a history lesson. It showed how far we’ve come and also how far we still have to go. I loved it.
I adored the show. Sadly I was not at all surprised by Trump's disgusting win. My son predicted it and he is pretty much the smartest person I know.
I watched the show and by the end, I was crying. We make two steps forward and then a step and a half back. Hate of those who are the slightest bit different is in full swing in this country, same as in this brilliant, painful musical.
Joshua Henry was soul shattering.
I saw the original production of Ragtime (not the original cast -- it was a little while after it opened), and I also saw the production in Ogunquit in 2017. Seems like a similar sort of resonance in 2017 and now.
I saw Ragtime at City Center on Wednesday, the day after the election. Like you, the show is one of my all-time favorite musicals and the score always makes me cry, even when I’m just playing the cast album at home, but Wednesday night was particularly heartbreaking and my husband and I were crying our eyes out. We saw the original cast at least twice on Broadway and again when LaChanze replaced Audra McDonald and even saw it on tour in Los Angeles and Washington DC, although I don’t remember if LaChanz was in the touring company. I thought the City Center cast was fantastic, particularly Joshua Henry and Cassie Levy. Nichelle Lewis has a lovely voice, but I sometimes struggled to understand the lyrics. I am not a huge fan of these encore presentations and have only been to a half a dozen of them, but they always strike me as a little threadbare and this was no exception. There’s nothing wrong with a simple, economical staging, especially with a great cast, but I agree that it needs to be bumped up a whole lot if they move to Broadway. Still, I’ll take any opportunity to see this show again. One other thing that struck me when the immigrants came on stage - why do they always have to shuffle like that? I know they’ve had a hard life, but….
It’s supposed to Transfer I hear to at Lincoln Center
I saw it last night.what va magnificent production and cast ❤❤
I went to the matinee the Saturday before closing. I thought this production was magnificent. I saw the show 6x previously (2x original production/ 3x revival/1x reunion concert). It had a whole meaning to me because of the election results, and I cried a lot.
Also, in my 50 years of theater going, I had never seen Joshua Henry on stage. He was a revelation, and I can’t wait to see him in his next production. I live in New Jersey, I had train trouble getting into the city, and train trouble getting out……but this Ragtime made every inconvenience worth it.
I am old enough (and therefore lucky enough) to have seen both the original production in Toronto (with songs/moments now long cut from the show) and both the original and revivals on Broadway. I've always thought it was a masterpiece ahead of its time. It had the misfortune of being mounted the same year of Lion King. The majesty and magnificence of the original cast can not be understated. Marin Mazzie's Back to Before devastated on multiple layers. What the revival did (both at Kennedy Center) and when it transferred brought to the forefront the immigrant narrative in a way that gives you the insight of how oppression plays out across marglinalized ppl. The framing and staging and especially the choreography throughout bringing culture to the center of the production (Note I have deep bias for the revival because I have the privilege of being friends with its director). Ive seen regional productions in DC and will see the closing performance of this one on Sunday which in light of Tuesday will now just be devastating in different ways. The magic of this show is that it centers our humanity and quest for freedom in a myriad of ways and paths. I am eager for Josh Henry's performance thinking he was born to play this role back when I saw him in Scottsboro Boys.
I was at the first public performance and as a lover of Ragtime, I was not disappointed. I’d say the highlights were Josh Henry’s Make Them Hear You, and Brandon Uranowitz’s Success. With both their performances being my favorites. I also agree that Nichelle was vocally outclassed by her costar and while I wasn’t let down by her performance, I much rather would’ve seen Joy or Joaquina do it.
I had the pleasure of seeing Joshua Henry play Aaron Burr in the Chicago cast of Hamilton, and I have been a fan of his ever since. I can’t even imagine experiencing him as Colehouse. ❤️
I had bought this ticket for last Friday in the hopes that I'd be CELEBRATING the end of election week instead of being in desperate need of comfort. I knew I'd sob either way because I've adored this music since I was a kid that stumbled upon BSM and Audra singing Wheels of a Dream on the Rosie O'Donnell show (LOL HOW OLD AM I), but watching it performed live for the first time was just...so cathartic. I do agree the vocal volume could have gone up 100 notches to keep up with that amazing orchestra. And as much as I adore Caissie, I do think her belting felt off at times for Mother's character. But otherwise this was so beautiful 😭😭😭😭 I think everyone in the audience needed this show last week.
Ragtime is one of my favorite shows. I'm a retired music teacher and I have long thought that certain musicals could be used in teaching American History or CIvics class. Ragtime would certainly be most effective used this way.
I saw it on Sunday, what an incredible show!!! I agree with basically your entire review lol. What a show!
Seeing it Sunday night! So excited I was able to fit it in with the trip to see Jack Wolfe on Wednesday!
I was so happy that this production was playing during my trip (Hi, tis I, the random awkward person from Schmackary's for the cookie reveal. Sorry about that.). It was amazing when I saw it on the 30th. We had people doing ovations during Wheels of a Dream, Til We Reach That Day, Back to Before and Make Them Hear You, obviously not counting the finale. There was also a loud cheer more or less after Younger Brother tells off Father in the second act. I was so intrigued, and really liked, the framing of Edgar telling Coalhouse III the story of Ragtime instead of just narrating it to the audience. And as noted, the ending with how they changed the 'dream' to a quiet moment instead of truly triumphant with how much work there is to be done. This is probably my third time seeing the show as our local theater did it both in 2003 and then in 2022 and when you get a chance to see Ragtime, you see Ragtime. The aforementioned reaction to Younger Brother telling off Father happened at our production in 2022 (we also had someone behind my dad and I being all "Yes you were" or something to that effect during either New Music or Atlantic City when Father sings 'Was I away too long?') The Coalhouse the 2nd time had actually understudied the role in the original production for the local theater. But the casting for the one at NYCC was amazing.
My sister saw RAGTIME in 2003 at London's Piccadilly theatre. The cast included Maria Freedman, Graham Bickley, Dave Willetts and Kevyn Morrow.
Hope your having fun in new york with aeron. not one of my favorite musicals but love this cast, crossing my fingers you go see shows that are closing like back to the future.
I saw the origional production in 1998, with Audrey Macdonald, an experience I'll never forget. Look at the incredible opening of that show, it's on TH-cam
I hope a Broadway transfer and eventual pro-shot happens. This production is one of the best I've seen in... forever! I'm a Canadian and angry about the US election result.
BEGGING for a Broadway transfer
I had the opportunity to see Ragtime yesterday at the closing performance. I didn't know much about Ragtime and intentionally didn't listen to the cast recording beforehand. My thoughts basically match yours, though much more nuanced because I'm not an expert. Some of the lyrics definitely hit differently after the election, but it was so beautiful even from the back of the balcony and without much scenery.
Prayinggggg we get a London transferrrr!!!!
I was fortunate to see this version and was deeply moved. This is one of the best musicals created. I thought Joshua Henry was every bit as good as Brian Stokes, Mitchell if not better in a few points.I think that Ben Levi Roos (Younger Brother) was amazing and even better than the original actor. I didn't care for Evelyn Nesbit interpretation in this version--too modern, IMO. Also, as good as Cassie Levy (Mother) was, it's nearly impossible to reach the bar set by Marin Maise. I felt Cassie's voice was not warm enough for Mother--like a flute rather than a clarinet. Both are beautiful, but I want Mother to be a clarinet, not a flute. I also felt her interpretation was too modern. without the gravitas of women's role in 1900s However, YMMV.
Overall, it was an absolutely amazing show with deeply moving performances.
Update. Saw Ragtime. I loved it, although it was heavy to see at this time in the United States.
There was a standing ovation for Wheels of a Dream at the performance I attended.
I don’t see this transferring to Broadway.The cast is too big to be sustainable. I feel privileged to have seen it.
Andre De Shields was sitting several rows in front of me. I heard him say to one of the people he was talking to that he was a big fan of Joshua Henry.
You can actually visit the Morgan Library - E 37th and Madison. They have some free hours, but I think you may have to schedule times. It’s a stunning building. It includes J.P Morgan’s study, the library, a rotunda, and the Librarian’s office. They currently have an exhibition on Morgan’s Librarian - Belle da Costa Greene - as it celebrates 100 years as a public institution. Interestingly, she was black passing for white which at that time could be incredibly dangerous. She helped the Morgan become a public institution and was its first director.
In light of our recent election I think we really need a revival and this cast is truly outstanding
I too love this score. My standout was the act I finale
I thought you made some interesting points, but having this be really my first exposure to the material- I loved Lear’s direction (especially considering how I tend to strongly dislike her direction of literally every other show of hers I’ve seen)
I first saw Ragtime - a show about which I knew almost nothing - a couple of years ago as a community youth theater production. I was blown away. The teenage performers were all incredible. And the political resonance of the show with the present time, coming as a surprise to me, was piercing. In mid 2022 we were struggling to heal in the aftermath of the many disasters engendered and inflamed by the previous Presidential administration, and these characters' stories felt so very, very real and present. And now, terrifyingly, here we go again. 😢 Maybe it *is* a perfect time for a full Broadway revival of the show. I would certainly be thrilled to be able to go to any professional production of it...or for that matter any community or school theater production, because the material is amazing and I just want to experience it again in any form. (Personal favorite numbers: Make Them Hear You, Back to Before, He Wanted to Say)
right after original.. Stunning
I am seeing the final performance on Sunday evening. Can’t wait. I’ve only seen the show once at Barrington Stage Company a few years back. It was an amazing production with Elizabeth Stanley as MOTHER, Darnell Abraham as COALHOUSE, J. Anthony Crane as TATEH and David Harris as FATHER. I had a ticket to the Ragtime 25th Anniversary Reunion Concert postponed due to the pandemic. I was unable to attend the rescheduled date in 2023 and had to reluctantly give up my ticket. I’m still kicking myself for having missed that once in a lifetime event.
I also saw that Barrington Stage Company production! It really was incredible, and I was particularly impressed by Elizabeth Stanley. I remember the production was all around great, with no weak links. I really liked the concept of that BSC production. If I remember correctly, it was the little boy in current day rummaging through an attic or toy chest - he and his family found artifacts, and the scene was transformed into the story of the show. The entire time, the audience was aware of the context of the child's view of the action, which I think helped to drive home the significance of the children in the story. I really loved that production!
Your assessment is brilliant. I loved especially your critique of the actress playing the Sarah role, i.e., although a good voice, it was not necessarily a musical theater voice. To me, as an audience member, this casting was the only wrong note in the production. I would have vastly preferred a true theater diva. Thank you for this excellent and thoughtful review.
It was perfect
I think the mic placement on Nichelle Lewis (at the top of her head which is right at the level of Joshua Henry’s lips) was such a hindrance during ‘Wheels of a Dream’. A lot of their staging was Joshua Henry directly over Nichelle Lewis with her mic at the top of her head and very often during this song Joshua Henry was basically singing right into her mic because of their staging and height differences. There is no reason that her voice should disappear at any point considering they’re mic’ed. At no point was she inaudible during her big act 1 solo which is much more dynamically nuanced and variable.
I might've seen you outside City Center when you saw this show and we might've seen it on the same night.
Didn't wanna disturb you because you were talking to someone. But if you had a Mickey Mouse backpack and were wearing a light blue shirt, that was definitely you and you're definitely taller than I thought you were. Glad you enjoyed the show as well!
Lea Michele raved about this show , and her family put money into it, but it came out the same year as Lion King!
I was obsessed with the book, disappointed with the movie and lucky enough to see Maria Friedman in the London production... just saying!
I agree about Father-he felt flattened and too unlikable, especially during What a Game.
As much I would love to see it on broadway, I also agree that it doesn’t really need to a transfer. Honestly, what I really want is a cast album. I really think Ragtime needs the Les MIs treatment I.e. multiple concert productions with cast albums that are filmed and always a touring production going on somewhere.
I hate that the actors have to do this show right now.
I'm sorry. I can't watch this right now.
Seeing this the night after the election was definitely something. Lots of emotion all around. Just hearing the lyrics to the first song and thinking - wow, history just keeps repeating.
I liked the show and the score. My only quibble is with the incessant need to have every single musical number end in an orgiastic explosion. Where's the subtlety?
I saw it the day after the election. I'm not sure that affected me (much) as I was already in love with this show - having seen each of the other b'way incarnations....this surpassed them both.
Unrelated… Dying to hear your reaction to Ariana’s take on Popular: th-cam.com/video/1EbQQymPd6M/w-d-xo.htmlsi=sg-lx-A3COMd1fkg