Lynn Ahrens and Stephen Flaherty, the renowned musical theatre duo behind Ragtime, are experiencing a career resurgence as their Broadway revival of the musical continues to captivate audiences. The show, which has been nominated for 10 Tony Awards, including Best Revival of a Musical, is a testament to their enduring creativity and artistic vision. However, the current success brings a bittersweet sentiment as they reflect on the absence of their late collaborator, Terrence McNally.
Ahrens and Flaherty reminisce about McNally's pivotal role in the creation of Ragtime, emphasizing his unique contribution to the project. McNally, a celebrated playwright, joined the team to adapt E.L. Doctorow's novel into a musical, infusing the story with his empathetic and poignant style. His work on Ragtime earned him a Tony Award, and he became an ardent supporter of the musical, championing its first Broadway revival in 2009. Tragically, McNally passed away in 2020, before the current revival even began.
The current revival of Ragtime, which has already surpassed the 2009 production in duration, serves as a poignant reminder of McNally's vision. Ahrens and Flaherty express their emotions, acknowledging that McNally's absence is felt deeply. They believe he would be proud of the show's current home at the Vivian Beaumont Theater, a venue he envisioned for Ragtime. The duo's commentary highlights the bittersweet nature of their success, as they imagine McNally's presence, offering guidance and appreciation.
The revival's success is further enhanced by the exceptional performances, particularly that of Joshua Henry as Coalhouse Walker Jr., who has been receiving standing ovations and a Tony Award nomination. Ahrens and Flaherty credit Henry's talent and dedication to the role, acknowledging the influence of previous performers like Brian Stokes Mitchell. They reflect on the evolution of the show, noting that it has become a dynamic dialogue between the audience and performers, with a fresh energy that resonates with modern audiences.
As the duo prepares for the Tony Awards, they embrace the opportunity to celebrate their artistic journey, acknowledging the contributions of those who are no longer with them. The revival of Ragtime is not just a triumph for Ahrens and Flaherty but also a testament to the enduring power of theatre, where the legacy of McNally continues to inspire and influence the art form.
