Ragtime is a sweeping musical adaptation of the 1975 novel by E.L. Doctorow, set at the turn of the twentieth century as America navigates rapid social change. Featuring a score by Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens and a book by Terrence McNally, the show interweaves the lives of Black, white, and immigrant communities while examining ambition, injustice, and the promise of the American Dream. Originally premiering on Broadway in 1998 to widespread acclaim, Ragtime remains one of the most ambitious and emotionally resonant works in modern musical theater.

Host Andrew Cole is joined by guest co-host Michael Keeler to discuss the new Lincoln Center Theater revival directed by Lear deBessonet. They explore the production's standout performances — including Joshua Henry, Caissie Levy, Brandon Uranowitz, and Nichelle Lewis — and unpack how this epic story lands in today's cultural moment, from its soaring score to its enduring themes of identity, empathy, and division.

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CHAPTERS 00:00 - Intro / Welcome Michael Keeler 11:10 - Setting the Stage 12:38 - Hot Takes 42:28 - Big Feels 54:33 - Should You See It? 58:43 - Outro

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SEE RAGTIME Get Tickets: https://www.lct.org/shows/ragtime/

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