REVIEW: "Ragtime" (2025 Broadway Revival) at the Vivian Beaumont Theatre on May 22, 2026
It turns out the third time is indeed the charm as this is the third Broadway production of the show since the debut of the well-regarded 1998 musical. The previous versions apparently collapsed under the weight of production bloat and runaway costs, but this ambitious show wisely started as a stripped-down Encores concert and from there, was built into a more fluid production befitting the rotating stage at this large scale venue in Lincoln Center.
Based on E.L. Doctorow's sprawling 1975 historical novel, it's still an ambitious work with multiple storylines as the show follows three families of diverse social backgrounds and economic means in the early 20th century. Their lives intersect in ways that echo the racism, anti-immigration, and class warfare prevalent of the time. That the themes reverberate now enhances the emotional power and political relevance of what was deemed a period piece.
Terrence McNally's book focuses effectively on the key elements of the rich source material. The music by Stephen Flaherty and lyrics by Lynn Ahrens lend dimension to songs that advance the narrative without contriving the challenging circumstances facing the characters. What was truly impressive was how a huge ensemble cast was showcased in ways that complemented each other seamlessly under Lear deBessonet's assured direction.
The spotlight is on the three principal players. As kind-hearted Tateh, Brandon Uranowitz brings poignancy and humor to his character's immigrant journey. In the late Marin Mazzie's classic role, Caissie Levy gives Mother a textured strength that moves to the foreground with her solo number, "Back to Before". However, it's Joshua Henry's stirring turn as pianist Coalhouse Walker Jr. that stays vividly in memory. His soaring vocals were a revelation to me.
This is my fourth time seeing him perform on Broadway, but his versions of "New Music" and especially "Wheels of a Dream" were transcendent. His duet partner on the latter, Nichelle Lewis as Sarah, is solid though overshadowed in the role that gave Audra McDonald her third Tony. Allison Blackwell as Sarah's nameless friend almost steals the show with the Act One closer, "Till We Reach That Day". The limited run is scheduled to end on August 2.
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