Working in the Theatre: Ragtime on Ellis Island

“This is the power of the theatre and the promise of our country, so beautifully evident on Ellis Island.”

Almost 20 years after its opening on Broadway and 100 years after the story is set, the musical Ragtime may even be more relevant now than ever. With its discussion of immigration, racial justice, and the promise of the American Dream, the producers of Ragtime on Ellis Island have taken this incredible work and made it site specific. Watch as we explore the influence of one of the most iconic locations in America where so many families began their American tale.

American Theatre Wing’s Working in the Theatre documentary series features the most fascinating people on the stage, behind the scenes, and in the audience. From Tony Awards® and Obie Awards® winning artists to the next generation of theatre makers, we capture theatre’s inner-workings, industry luminaries, and unique stories that surround important work.


#WorkingInTheTheatre #Season38

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[oliviaberrong]

It’s so cool that a musical can address the lives of different people in history and their struggles while relating those struggles to the struggles people currently have in the world!

[JoeHarkinsHimself]

BTassie
asks where to watch this whole performance. I have it here, right now, inside my head, every moment, whenever i want it. I also have every moment of the rehearsals that took place in a studio on 42nd Street. I was Grandfather. There are glimpses of me at various places in this video. For example, 2:40 on the ferry, handing Sammi a small box of chocolates I'd brought as a gift for her. I sat directly behind Laura Kelly. There's a good shot of me at 1o:42. This was a "proof of concept" concert, to show the National Park Service, the protectors and managers of this iconic location, that the show could be produced while respecting the integrity and safety of the property.



If the NPS officials were satisfied that this early-August production met their standards, rehearsals were to start in October for a fully realized production, complete with costumes and choreography that would be open to the public starting in November. Shortly after this performance, NPS was quick to give its approval. The first performance dates were set.


Then, a few weeks before it was to start, it was announced that one of the principal financial backers had withdrawn support. The show was cancelled. That's show biz.


WOW, what a cast and crew. It's is always a thrill to be on stage but something that is not mentioned enough when speaking about New York theater, is the amazing people who do such perfect work. The biggest thrill of all is to have even a small role in a production with these people.

[litsylopez]

I really appreciated hearing about the process of how they were able to perform in an area that is not usually used for performances. There are lots of elements needed to put on a show. The setting really added to the performance considering how relevant and significant it is to the story.

[veggiebea]

Anyone know where we can watch this whole performance? This is so powerful on Ellis Island, with this stellar cast, and it's my favorite musical.

[whitniestark]

This is so powerful and passionate in how they talk about the problems of the world and show them through theater.

[NicoleAckman]

This is such an amazing video. Thank you for sharing this beautiful production with those of us who didn't get a chance to see it.

[laurenc.]

I love how well done this whole channel is! So much fun and very educational!

[julianacortez]

I really like how touching this video is, its also very passionate. i know it didn’t just touch me but everyone else watching it.

[goble]

I like how someone had a dream to make this musical more magical in this historical place.

[marciaperna]

I was trying to figure out who played Coalhouse and then saw in the credits it was Brandon Victor Dixon! Give this guy a starring role on Broadway please!