Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens’ musical “Ragtime”, nearly 30 years after its creation, continues to resonate with audiences as it returns for its third Broadway run at Lincoln Center’s Vivian Beaumont Theater.
The production, which has earned 11 Tony nominations including Best Revival, tells the interconnected stories of three families in New York at the turn of the 20th century, originally adapted from E.L. Doctorow’s 1975 novel with a book by the late Terrence McNally.
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Blending fiction with historical figures such as Emma Goldman, Booker T. Washington, J.P. Morgan, Henry Ford and Harry Houdini, the musical explores themes of immigration, race, class and identity. Cast members say audiences are increasingly connecting with its contemporary relevance, with many returning to watch the show with family members across generations.
The revival is a strong contender for Best Musical Revival at the Tony Awards, alongside productions like “Cats: The Jellicle Ball” and “The Rocky Horror Show”, with multiple acting nominations for its cast.
Director Lear deBessonet said the production remains unchanged, but audiences are interpreting it differently, noting its reflection of present-day social realities.
The Broadway run is scheduled to conclude on August 2, with a national tour planned for 2027.