Reviews of the Paper Mill Playhouse Production of Ragtime

 

Here are some excerpts from the reviews of the Paper Mill Playhouse production of Ragtime

 

"Composer Stephen Flaherty provides a breathtaking rainbow of sound, blending elements of early 20th Century popular music with the finest of contemporary Broadway. Thanks to Lynn Ahrens, the lyrics are not only literate, but as dramatically compelling as Terence McNally's superb libretto. After a dismal Broadway season, re-visiting this modern classic is like finding a glistening oasis in the midst of a rather dull desert." (musicals101.com)

 

"When Ragtime opened in New York at the beginning of 1998, I concluded that it was the indisputably great musical for the end of the century, rather neatly complementing Show Boat in terms of its inspired score, serious subject matter, and humanity. Now that the Stephen Flaherty-Lynn Ahrens-Terrence McNally show is being revived at the Paper Mill Playhouse in a production directed by Stafford Arima, I see no reason to change my opinion. This shrewd musical adaptation of E.L. Doctorow's magnificent 1975 look at the turbulent melting pot that was early 20th-century America is giving every indication that it will withstand the test of time. "( Theatermania.com)

"Performances are first- rate.. A profoundly pleasant rediscovery that has lost none of its heart, passion and glorious musical resonance!" (Variety)

"A true feat! This is a beautifully sung and acted production! If there ever was a show that was more than the sum of its parts this is it! (The Bergen Record)

"Only true masters could have done such a fine job of turning E.L. Doctorow's sprawling novel into a moving theatrical experience. This is pure theatre, as refreshing as it is daring in its simplicity. A fresh, innovative take on a great Broadway show." (Musicals101.com)

"The bottom line is that the Paper Mill production of Ragtime is powerful, deeply moving and not to be missed!" ( Talkin' Broadway.com)