Ragtime
Three American stories collide in this sweeping Tony-winning musical at the Vivian Beaumont Theater. A landmark Broadway revival.
About this show
Ragtime Tickets
This landmark Broadway revival of Ragtime brings E.L. Doctorow's sweeping tale to life at the Vivian Beaumont Theater. Set at the dawn of the 20th century, the musical follows three American families whose lives intersect in unexpected ways as they chase their versions of the American Dream. You'll meet Coalhouse Walker Jr., a talented Black pianist, Tateh, a Jewish immigrant artist with his young daughter, and Mother, part of a wealthy white suburban family. Their stories unfold against the backdrop of a rapidly changing America, weaving together themes of hope, ambition, racial justice, and immigration that resonate powerfully today.
Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens' Tony-winning score drives this emotionally charged production, with Terrence McNally's book capturing the complexity of three worlds colliding. Director Lear deBessonet leads this revival, bringing fresh perspective to a musical that originally won four Tony Awards in 1998. The production features standout performances from Joshua Henry as Coalhouse Walker Jr., Caissie Levy as Mother, and Brandon Uranowitz as Tateh, with Colin Donnell, Nichelle Lewis, and a stellar ensemble cast bringing depth to every role.
What to Expect at Ragtime
Ragtime runs for 2 hours and 45 minutes with one interval, giving you time to process the emotional weight of the first act before returning for the powerful conclusion. The Vivian Beaumont Theater at Lincoln Center provides an intimate setting for this grand musical, with its thrust stage bringing you closer to the action than traditional proscenium theatres.
David Korins' set design and Linda Cho's period costumes transport you to early 1900s America, while Ellenore Scott's choreography captures the energy of a nation in transition. The cast also includes John Clay III as Booker T. Washington, Ben Levi Ross as Younger Brother, Anna Grace Barlow as Evelyn Nesbit, and Shaina Taub as Emma Goldman. This revival emphasises the musical's themes through contemporary staging while honouring the period setting. If you're planning an evening of Broadway entertainment, you might also consider Hamilton tickets for another historically-focused musical, or explore The Lion King tickets for a different style of theatrical spectacle.
Before You Go
Ragtime is recommended for ages 5 and above, though the mature themes of racial violence and social injustice mean it's most suitable for older children and adults. Children under 5 are not admitted to the theatre. The venue operates a smart casual dress code, and the theatre can get chilly year-round due to air conditioning, so bring a light jacket.
Arrive at least 30 minutes before curtain time, as late arrivals may not be seated until a suitable break in the performance. The Vivian Beaumont Theater offers wheelchair-accessible seating, assistive listening devices, and accessible restrooms. Mobile phones must be switched off, and photography or recording during the performance is strictly prohibited. The theatre features restrooms, a bar area for pre-show drinks, cloakroom facilities, and lobby concessions.
Good to know
Next available · Thu, Aug 27, 2026
Refund policy
These tickets cannot be cancelled or rescheduled.
What audiences say
Audiences love the powerful storytelling and compelling themes present in the show. Many praise the exceptional performances, particularly the singing and acting, which resonate deeply with viewers. The music is consistently highlighted as beautifully written and integral to the experience, enhancing the emotional journey of the narrative.
What the critics say
“In the hands of the Gallery Players, 'Ragtime' flourishes. Under the capable direction of Mark Harborth and his talented cast, the musical is compelling, entertaining, and heart-wrenching...The vocals in this production of 'Ragtime' make the show a must-see...But if you don’t go for the vocals, go for the dance numbers. Brilliantly choreographed and seamlessly executed, the dance scenes in this production are fun and full of vitality...The music of 'Ragtime' resonates with everyone.”
“McNally’s book, a small masterpiece of concision and focus, stitches Flaherty and Ahrens’s superb songs into a 'gorgeous mosaic' of the story of America...Not every cast member boasts Broadway-quality singing chops, but the overall talent level is most impressive...Director Mark Harborth marshals the large cast skillfully to render the show’s panoramic portrait of the human spirit with piercing energy, convincing period atmosphere, and clever staging, buoyed by witty choreography.”
““The basis of the story involves three groups - Blacks from Harlem, Middle-Class Whites from New Rochelle, and Jewish Immigrants from the Lower East Side. They live separately but the early 20th Century has brought in with it a new music, which appears destined to upset the old order. Political turmoil, labor unrest, and the boiling over of the melting pot seem to foreshadow conflicts that may be inevitable. This production features 37 actors and excellent choreography. I highly recommend it.””
““The cast is superb. The period costumes make the pre-World War I era come alive before our eyes. The fight sequences are amazingly realistic. The play features three groups - blacks in Harlem, whites in New Rochelle, and Jewish immigrants from Latvia. They live separate and apart but in this play, several events take place causing their worlds to collide. I highly recommend this production. The Gallery Players did a magnificent job. Do yourself a real favor by seeing it!””
Community Reviews
Venue
Vivian Beaumont Theater, 150 W 65th St, New York, NY 10023, USA
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