Ragtime is a musical with a book by Terrence McNally, lyrics by Lynn Ahrens and music by Stephen Flaherty based on a 1975 novel by E. L. Doctorow.
Turn back the clock to the start of the 20th century--a time when anything was possible and ragtime music was king! For many, New York City was the land of opportunity. A poor Jewish immigrant sells his "moving picture" books on the street. A wealthy Victorian couple welcomes a runaway into their home. A Harlem jazz pianist turns an issue of justice into a revolution. One by one, their personal journeys come alive as historic figures offer guidance and diversion--among them escape artist Harry Houdini, auto tycoon Henry Ford, famed educator Booker T. Washington, and chorus girl Evelyn Nesbit. Together, their stories celebrate the struggle between tradition and independence… black and white… old and new… all in pursuit of the American dream. With its cast of vibrant characters, vivid sets and costumes, and Tony Award–winning score, Ragtime is a can't-miss theater event.