Our project is a theatrical analysis and virtual experience of Ragtime, the musical. Broadway shows in themselves are amazing–the music, the performance, the setting, the ambiance–but have you truly taken the time to think about the story and its societal significance? Through our presentation we aim to reveal this, giving first-hand reviews of the performance as well as historical context and analysis. For our class, it was supposed to be like a virtual experience, so we began with our admittedly chaotic and rollercoaster of a ride rushing tickets. We then explain the more meaningful, contextual aspects: the plot, the playbills, the actors, the historical significance, and what “Ragtime” actually is, more than a melody. Three major themes of classicism, injustice, and immigration, very prevalent topics in today’s age and especially in New York City, are explored through specific scenes and songs. Finally, we provide a personal reflection and recommendation of the performance. Our project reflects upon, and hopes to show, how Ragtime creates connections, not just between the performers and the audience but between the past and the present, and seemingly dramatic and distant stories on stage that unfortunately our actual realities in our city.
Art is more than a beauty to admire and a harmony to hear, it is a visual representation of the world around this. Ragtime made this very clear in its portrayal of three major themes: classicism, injustice, and immigration. The whole production brings to light struggles and differences in today’s New York City, and reminds us that at the core we are human, made for connection, care, and love. We see the pain of discrimination, and how that can push someone, like Coalhouse Walker, to the brink of total destruction. We are exposed to the harsh realities of the American Dream through the European Immigrants; the longing for a better life, yet the crushing actuality of being cold on the street and going hungry. By making us contemplate these historical and pervasive New York City issues, the musical, in a sense, pulls us out of this carelessness and naivety for those people around us and their problems, whether it be your neighbor or a homeless person–anybody. I think it demands that we be more conscious of our actions, more caring, and ultimately more united with one another and as a city.
