I was not familiar with the story or the music before this performance, and found both engaging. This was a concert version, but the cast was costumed well and was able to create the proper mood easily. I had many friends singing in this production which made it more enjoyable.

Ragtime is one of the most thorough musicals you will ever see. In terms of story, history, and musical numbers, at the end of the show you will be satisfied emotionally, visually and mentally. This concert version, under the direction of DeReau K. Farrar, did a very good job incorporating the complex story elements considering it was not acted out. Standout performances by Jantré Haskin Christian as Sarah, Tia Simone as Sarah's Friend, Phillip Brandon as Coalhouse and Jennifer Miller as Mother. Many in the audience were brought to tears or physical emotion by Mrs. Haskin Christian's performance of "Your Daddy's Son."

Congratulations to the cast and crew for a successful production!

This was a concert version of the music from "Ragtime," with the story told by a narrator. Each of the singers had memorized their lines; DeReau Farrar conducted movingly and well, always on top of things. This is the first in the Founder's Forum series, with the next even being Brazilian music, followed by bel canto opera singing, and other music theater/cabaret. The performance of "Ragtime" exceeded even my high expectations. Extremely good value for the money.

Having seen Ragtime on stage a decade ago I can understand the advantages of doing the show in a "concert" setting. The music is wonderful and should be heard more often. I liked the idea of using a narrator, soloists and a chorus of voices. However, much of the original show's impack was lost because several songs were either cut out"The Showbiz" and The Baseball song") or edited down (The Henry Ford portion of the "Getting Ready Rag"). Although talented, the Atlantic City dancer was unnecessary. The presentation was more of a "Theatre of the Mind" rather than a visual show.
I would like to see other Broadway show done in this way if only to experience them live. I would even like to join the cast. I already belong to "Sing Sing Sing" a sing along group which features songs from the American Songbook.

The level of musicianship across the board was extremely high with even the weakest singers on stage being excellent. Production values were great, especially for a concert production. I loved all the little costume touches that gave an early 20th Century flair. It was produced by a new production company, The RED Stamp. I'd highly recommend attending anything they produce!