"Ragtime," the four-time Tony Award winner, razzle-dazzled the audience Saturday night at the Lied Center, receiving the first full-blown standing ovation since the season's start.
The glorious, three-hour musical features strong vocals by a 28-member cast, a poignant storyline based on E.L. Doctorow's novel, brilliant compositions played by an eight-piece band, and scenic designs that move along and enhance the story.
But the show also takes on a poignancy in light of recent events in this country and elsewhere in the world. The message of the show doesn't change; it just resonates deeper.
"Ragtime" puts a mirror up to the face of America and shows its dimples and its warts: hatred against those who are different from ourselves; a longing for the kinder, gentler past; unbridled patriotism; dreams fulfilled and dreams denied.
The show carries out its message by putting the spotlight on three families: a well-to-do white family who has never had to struggle; an immigrant father and daughter whose image of America is shattered after they arrive; and a black couple, whose hopes are never realized.
Quentin Earl Darrington, as Coalhouse Walker Jr., and Kenita Miller, as Sarah, steal the show with their beautiful, bending voices. Their duets � "Wheels of a Dream" and "Sarah Brown Eyes" � are smooth as honey. Separately, Darrington rallies and inspires in "Justice" and Miller delivers a sorrowful "Your Daddy's Son."
Emily Herring, as Mother, also wins over the audience with her clear, sweet singing. Her performance of "Back to Before" voiced what many Americans are feeling at this hour � a longing for a time without anger or confusion.
"Ragtime" is the highest form of art: It uses music, dance and singing to speak about the important issues of our time.
Comments
Lawrence.com does not necessarily agree with comments posted below - responsibility lies with the relevant user alone. Read our full policy.