Ragtime

Ragtime is a sweeping musical adaptation of E. L. Doctorow's novel that follows three fictional families in pursuit of the American Dream at the dawn of the 20th century: Black pianist Coalhouse Walker, Jr. and his beloved Sarah, Jewish immigrant Tateh and his little girl, and a wealthy white family led by matriarch Mother. All grasping for the same dream, if only they can hold on to it. Featuring a lush score by Stephen Flaherty and lyrics by Lynn Ahrens, a stirring book by Terrence McNally, Ragtime weaves fictional narratives with real historical figures and events, creating a rich tapestry that blurs the line between personal struggle and national identity, making history feel both intimate and epic. The production runs previews October 21–23, 2026, opens October 24, 2026, and closes November 15, 2026, at Rubicon Theatre in Ventura, California.