What is Ragtime about?

Ragtime tells the story of three disparate groups—an affluent white family, a Black pianist, and Jewish immigrants—whose lives intersect in New York at the turn of the 20th century, exploring themes of class, race, and the American Dream.

Where is Ragtime playing?

Ragtime is playing at the Vivian Beaumont Theatre, located at 150 W 65th St, New York, NY 10023.

The running time for Ragtime is approximately 165 minutes.

Ragtime features music by Stephen Flaherty, lyrics by Lynn Ahrens, and a book by Terrence McNally, based on the novel by E. L. Doctorow.

When did this revival of Ragtime open?

This Lincoln Center Theater revival of Ragtime opened on October 16, 2025.

Is Ragtime a family-friendly show?

The musical addresses mature themes of race, class, and social injustice pertinent to the early 20th century, so parental discretion is advised for younger viewers.

Broadway · Show

Ragtime

Lincoln Center Theater's revival of the Ahrens & Flaherty turn-of-the-century epic.

Theatre: Vivian Beaumont Theatre; 150 W 65th St, New York, NY 10023
Opened: October 16, 2025
Run time: 2h 45m

Official Site(Vivian Beaumont Theatre)

About Ragtime

Ragtime, the epic musical from the acclaimed duo Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty, returns to Broadway in a new Lincoln Center Theater revival. This production stages at the Vivian Beaumont Theatre, a distinctive thrust stage venue located in the heart of Lincoln Center at 150 W 65th St, New York, NY. The musical first opened on October 16, 2025, bringing its expansive narrative to a new generation of theatergoers.

Set against the backdrop of the early 20th century in New York, Ragtime weaves together the stories of three disparate groups: an affluent white family in New Rochelle, a Black pianist from Harlem, and a Jewish immigrant and his daughter. As their lives intertwine, the musical explores themes of class, race, immigration, and the American Dream during a period of significant social and economic change. The production is known for its complex score, blending period-specific sounds with traditional musical theatre elements, and its rich, multi-layered storytelling that reflects the diverse tapestry of American society at the turn of the century.

Audiences attending Ragtime can expect a powerful and sweeping theatrical experience. The production runs for approximately 165 minutes, offering a substantial and immersive journey through its historical setting and character arcs. The musical’s book, penned by Terrence McNally, is celebrated for its intricate plotting and compelling character development, derived from E. L. Doctorow's seminal novel. This revival at the Vivian Beaumont Theatre provides an opportunity to engage with a work that remains profoundly relevant, examining the foundational challenges and aspirations that continue to shape the United States. Its grand scale and poignant narrative make it a notable event in the Broadway season.

Frequently asked questions

What is Ragtime about?: Ragtime tells the story of three disparate groups—an affluent white family, a Black pianist, and Jewish immigrants—whose lives intersect in New York at the turn of the 20th century, exploring themes of class, race, and the American Dream.
Where is Ragtime playing?: Ragtime is playing at the Vivian Beaumont Theatre, located at 150 W 65th St, New York, NY 10023.
How long is Ragtime?: The running time for Ragtime is approximately 165 minutes.
Who wrote Ragtime?: Ragtime features music by Stephen Flaherty, lyrics by Lynn Ahrens, and a book by Terrence McNally, based on the novel by E. L. Doctorow.
When did this revival of Ragtime open?: This Lincoln Center Theater revival of Ragtime opened on October 16, 2025.
Is Ragtime a family-friendly show?: The musical addresses mature themes of race, class, and social injustice pertinent to the early 20th century, so parental discretion is advised for younger viewers.