Ragtime (Play)

Updated June 26, 2020 | Infoplease Staff

Terrence McNally has streamlined E. L. Doctorow's epic novel about three turn-of-the-century New York families—one Wasp, one Jewish and one African American—into a $10 million production that is heartfelt and grand, but at times condescending. There's even an occasional trace of Noel Coward and Jerome Kern. Leading man Mitchell, as a black revolutionary, commands the stage with a beguiling magnetism and melting voice. He's supported by a top-flight production crew and a cast of tested talents, including the always melodious Audra McDonald. When Mitchell and McDonald wrap their formidable vocal cords around “Wheel of a Dream,” the show soars. Visually, too, there's much to admire, from the hand-painted daguerreotypes to the eye-popping, diaramic set and brilliant lighting. However, the musical assemblage careens into dull pedagogy at times, failing to retain Doctorow's trademark wit. As if to compensate for these flagging moments, Ragtime overindulges in uplifting sentimentality. But all in all, Ragtime is a solid effort, a gorgeous, toe-tapping salute to a country poised for change.