Ragtime (Broadway Revival 2025-26)
Broadway | Limited Run Revival (extended) | Vivian Beaumont Theatre at Lincoln Center | Opened October 16, 2025 (Investment)
Creative Team
This magnificent Lincoln Center Theater revival of Ragtime features a celebrated score by Lynn Ahrens (lyrics) and Stephen Flaherty (music), with a book by Terrence McNally. The production is masterfully directed by Lear deBessonet, featuring dynamic choreography by Ellenore Scott, and a striking, fluid scenic design by David Korins that utilizes a massive stage turntable.
Synopsis
Based on E.L. Doctorow's 1975 novel, Ragtime weaves a monumental tapestry of American identity at the dawn of the 20th century. The narrative collides the intersecting paths of three distinct families chasing the American Dream: a wealthy, conservative white family in New Rochelle; a determined Black Harlem musician, Coalhouse Walker Jr., and his love, Sarah; and an impoverished Jewish immigrant artist, Tateh, arriving with his young daughter. Historical figures like Emma Goldman, Booker T. Washington, and Harry Houdini float through a powerful score that addresses enduring struggles with racial injustice, immigration, and social change.
Production History
Ragtime debuted on Broadway in 1998 and has received two major revivals, one in 2009 in addition to this most recent production. This particular production originally blossomed as a critically adored New York City Center Encores! Gala presentation in autumn 2024. Due to immense critical acclaim, it officially transferred to Broadway, opening on October 16, 2025, at Lincoln Center's Vivian Beaumont Theater. Its sweeping scale features a full 28-piece orchestra performing the show's lush original orchestrations.
Cast Highlights
The powerhouse ensemble cast features:
Joshua Henry: Stars as the passionate, ultimately tragic pianist Coalhouse Walker Jr.
Caissie Levy: Delivers a monumental performance as Mother, anchoring the show's emotional spine.
Brandon Uranowitz: Portrays the resilient, striving immigrant Tateh.
Nichelle Lewis: Features as Sarah, gaining vast acclaim for her rendition of "Your Daddy's Son."
Shaina Taub & Ben Levi Ross: Round out the featured principal cast as anarchist Emma Goldman and Mother's Younger Brother, respectively.
Awards Recognition
Original 1998 Production: Nominated for 13 Tony Awards, walking away with 4 wins, including Best Original Score (Ahrens & Flaherty), Best Book (McNally), and a historic Featured Actress win for Audra McDonald.
The 2025/2026 Revival: Celebrated as a massive critical triumph, the Lincoln Center production dominated the 2026 Tony Awards. The show officially won Best Revival of a Musical, alongside performance wins for Joshua Henry (Best Actor) and Caissie Levy (Best Actress), and a win for Kai Harada for Best Sound Design.