You will feel like you are floating on the “Wheels of a Dream” as you sit in the New York City Center (W. 55th Street between Sixth and Seventh Avenues) and experience a beautiful revival of “Ragtime,” which opened at the center’s gala night on Wednesday, Oct. 30 — and it was unbelievable! I was thrilled to hear this classic musical would be presented by New York City Center as it celebrates more than 80 years of bringing the best in the arts to the stage.
The production is marvelous. The story of the racism, injustice, and the indignities that Black and immigrant people have experienced in this country is very relevant, especially today. The book by Terrence McNally, adapted from the E.L. Doctorow’s novel,is important and the music by Stephen Flaherty, with lyrics by Lynn Ahrens, will touch your heart and soul on many levels. These songs show the societal issues that are in this country’s past and present, and the story of Coalhouse Walker Jr. and Sarah will make you take pause.
What is interesting about this musical is it shows that marginalized communities have always faced insurmountable obstacles, but will not only manage to persevere but to thrive. Walker is a man who loses everything, but still manages to let his voice, anger, and message be heard and he inspires the community around him that supported his efforts toward justice.
The cast of this musical is large and so is their talent. Joshua Henry as Walker comes into the role with a powerful vocal instrument and a massive stature that takes the character to amazing heights. Henry shows every emotion that his character feels and he makes you feel it as well. Nichelle Lewis is stunning as Sarah — her performance is gentle, but also fierce when it needs to be. The cast give the production their absolute all and are phenomenal to experience.
Watching this production will make you laugh, get angry, smile, and feel pride in what people can accomplish despite the trials they face in life. This musical touches on so many relevant issues besides the ones already named. It looks at the relationships between family members and how we grow when we realize we don’t have to accept a limiting relationship. We can stand up for what is right and decent.
The cast includes Caissie Levy, Brandon Uranowitz, Matthew Lamb, John Clay III, Ben Levi Ross, Rodd Cyrus, Stephanie Styles, Shaina Taub, Colin Donnell, and Tabitha Lawing. The large ensemble company is also splendid. Every moment of this show flows effortlessly.
Choreography is by Ellenore Scott, music direction by James Moore, and direction is by the incomparable Lear Debessonet. The presentation of this production is vibrant, featuring scenic and projection design by David Rockwell, costume design by Linda Cho, lighting design by Adam Honore, sound design by Kai Harada, and hair and wig design by Tom Watson.
There are so many memorable songs in this production that I guarantee there will be moments you’ll feel chills as these thespians sing their hearts out.
You only have until Nov. 10 to experience “Ragtime.” There will be a performance with ASL Interpretation on Nov. 7 (7:30 p.m.) and a post-show Community Night on Nov. 8 (7:30 p.m.), with guests from the Amsterdam News, Tenement Museum, and Urban League.
For more information, visit www.nycitycenter.org.