Composer

:

Stephen Flaherty

Genre

:

Musical Theatre

Style

:

Musical Theater

Ragtime is a musical composed by Stephen Flaherty, with lyrics by Lynn Ahrens and a book by Terrence McNally. The musical is based on the 1975 novel of the same name by E.L. Doctorow. The plot of the musical is set in the early 20th century and follows the lives of three groups of people: African Americans, upper-class white Americans, and Eastern European immigrants. The musical was composed in 1996 and premiered on Broadway on January 18, 1998. The original production was directed by Frank Galati and choreographed by Graciela Daniele. The musical was a critical and commercial success, receiving 13 Tony Award nominations and winning four, including Best Original Score. The musical is divided into two acts and features several movements, including "Ragtime," "Goodbye, My Love," "The Crime of the Century," and "Make Them Hear You." The music of the musical is characterized by its use of ragtime, a musical style popular in the early 20th century. The plot of the musical follows the lives of several characters, including Coalhouse Walker Jr., a talented pianist and ragtime musician; Mother, a wealthy white woman who becomes involved with Coalhouse; Tateh, a Jewish immigrant who becomes a successful filmmaker; and Younger Brother, Mother's younger brother who becomes involved with the African American community. The musical explores themes of race, class, and immigration, and features several historical figures, including Harry Houdini, Booker T. Washington, and Henry Ford. Overall, Ragtime is a powerful and moving musical that explores the complexities of American society in the early 20th century. Its use of ragtime music and historical figures adds depth and richness to the story, making it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences today.

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