At this time, this group is living through the greatest ‘Negro’ migration, from South to North, that the country has ever seen. Their story represents not only the vitality but the voice of the African American. His vocal and emotional, “Make Them Hear you” tears at the heart and brings a hush to the entire audience. The next is the life of a Harlem musician, Coalhouse Walker, Jr., so powerful and brilliantly played by Clifton Duncan who in his own right, for the time being, has ‘made good.’ Bryce Charles’ intensely sensitive and touching portrayal of Sarah, Coalhouse’s lover, changes his life and future. To him, she is his, and to be treated as all who cannot fend for themselves, yet she finds her own sense of self and eventual love. “Mother” is played by the lovely talented Shannon Warne and “Father” is aptly performed by Zachary Ford. Their singular stories begin with the established upper class, focusing on a well- heeled White American family from New Rochelle, New York. It is an overview of the clash and assimilation of three prominent cultures.
It then unfolds and continues to be a moving, emotional and well-crafted commentary at the turn of the 20 th century which echoes even today. The opening is a visual metaphor for the chaotic process of melding cultures in this complex country. by Graciela Daniele) establishes groups of each contingent, first freely moving, then chance encounters and backing away from confrontation as the circle gets larger and more complex. Lynn Ahrens’ lyrics so succinctly describe the delusions of the White Upper Class in the Prologue: “ Ladies with parasols, fellas with tennis balls, there were gazebos and there were no Negros… and there were no Immigrants.” As goes one of the lines of the opening number.Īlong with this is the visually beautiful staging and direction by David Lee, Director and Mark Esposito, Choreographer (originally Directed by Frank Galati and choreographed. Stephen Flaherty’s memorable music haunts us even after the curtain goes down.
Doctorow’s novel of the same name and adapted by Terrence McNally genius. This, a not-to-be-missed production of “ RAGTIME: The Musical” now playing at the elegant historic Pasadena Playhouse from Feb 5- Mar 3, 2019.
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