Joshua Henry has a remarkable voice and incredible stage presence, and is a marvelous performer, so I was thrilled — although not surprised — to learn that he will lead the cast of the New York City Center (NYCC)’s production of “Ragtime,” Oct. 30–Nov. 10. Playing the role of Coalhouse Walker, Jr., Henry will lead an all-star cast, playing opposite Nichelle Lewis as Sarah, with additional featured cast members John Clay III, Rodd Cyrus, Colin Donnell, Matthew Lamb, Tabitha Lawing, Caissie Levy, Ben Levi Ross, Stephanie Styles, Shaina Taub, and Brandon Uranowitz.
“Ragtime” is a powerful musical that looks at racism and inequality in this country. It has a tremendous book by Terrence McNally, music by Stephen Flaherty, and lyrics by Lynn Ahrens, and is based on the E.L. Doctorow novel of the same name. The musical will feature direction by Lear DeBessonet with music direction by James Moore.
Just as rehearsals were beginning, Henry took the time to speak with the AmNews about this project and his professional journey, along with finally getting his dream role.
AmNews: How did you hear about the role of Colehouse Walker, Jr. in the NYCC production of “Ragtime?”
JH: Last year, Lear deBessonet was directing a workshop of a piece I’m writing. On a 10-minute break, she said “I have this idea for ‘Ragtime,’ but is this something you’re interested in?” All I could do was laugh because it’s the only role from a revival I’ve remained interested in. She couldn’t believe I’ve never played him before. So grateful for Lear’s vision. This is my only dream role and I’m finally ready to embody him.
AmNews: What do you identify with, regarding the character of Coalhouse Walker, Jr.?
JH: Coalhouse’s DNA is music. He loves it like breathing and he uses it to bring people together. He’s a leader aware of the shoulders he’s standing on. He is steadfast and committed to those around him. He’s made some horrible mistakes, but demonstrates his commitment to making them right. I’m certainly not this every day, but Coalhouse makes me want to try harder.
AmNews: What does it mean to you to be performing the role for the Oct. 30 gala, where the original Broadway star Brian Stokes Mitchell will be honored?
JH: Speaking of shoulders I get to stand on … Brian Stokes Mitchell is a giant to me and to so many other Black men in art and beyond. I hope to honor the legacy of power, versatility, and grace he symbolizes, as well as the advocacy for artists he continues to fight for.
AmNews: Why is “Ragtime” so relevant today?
JH: America is a beautiful, triumphant experiment. It was in 1902 and it is in 2024. “Ragtime” paints a picture of a country asking itself, “Will you live up to all that you claim to be?” It shows that America is at its greatest when that question is at the forefront.
AmNews: How excited are you to work with Nichelle Lewis as Sarah?
JH: Nichelle is incredibly talented and so easy to work with. She brings an honesty, openness, and excitement to her work that is so refreshing to witness.
AmNews: Joshua, you have graced the stage in many musicals, and your voice is legendary. Where did you get your professional training?
JH: I’m proud to have trained formally at the University of Miami’s Frost School of Music, but I found my voice at Victory Bible Fellowship in South Florida, where I was on the praise team. Then I was in a band called Peanut Butter and Jam Session with my brother David. It was at those places where I learned how to sound like me.
AmNews: How do you keep your fantastic instrument in shape?
JH: Thank you very much! I sing a lot and practice strengthening different parts of my voice like an athlete trains different parts [of the body] each day. One day, I’ll just practice certain vowels with a lighter sound; other days, different vowels with a heavy sound. My voice is not my identity but I’m committed — healthily obsessed — to find ways to keep it growing. [I drink] lots of water — usually around a gallon a day in rehearsal/performance. I’m also constantly singing different styles with other music I write, which only helps with the current sound I’m making in “Ragtime.” I do love my voice!
AmNews: What do you feel when you play a role like this?
JH: I feel a sense of peace [in] playing this role. Coalhouse has been my only dream role. In 2010, there was a revival I auditioned for but didn’t get. Honestly, I wasn’t ready … but I’m ready now. I’ve lived some life, I’ve had three amazing kids with my glorious wife Cathryn, and most importantly … my spirit feels ready. I respect and admire Coalhouse’s journey so much.
AmNews: What advice would you give to young people who want to enter this industry?
JH: My advice to young artists is make a habit of asking yourself, “What kind of artist do I want to be?” And this answer may change over time. It can be an artist who can pay the bills, one who dabbles in it for fun, or one who wants to be exceptional and of service to humanity. All those require a different kind of commitment. Try to be honest about where you want to be and then get curious, research, and practice what will be required for you to get there.
AmNews: Why should people come to experience the production at NYCC?
JH: I believe they will be moved beyond belief, feel a deeper sense of connection to their neighbor, and leave singing the most glorious songs ever written for the stage.