A university-wide production of Ragtime is the first show to be performed in the newly renovated Elsie C. Brackett Theatre this weekend.
When asked how it felt to be a part of the first cast to step on this stage, acting senior, Gabby Reyes, described it as an honor, a chance to make history.
One of the things that makes this production special is it is a collaborative effort. Since it is not specifically the work of one department, students from varying disciplines were able to join in.
Students from the drama, dance, musical theatre and vocal performance departments will all be making appearances in the show, which allows for the dynamic on stage to be truly special.
Joe Locarro, the director of the show, performed in the original cast of “Ragtime” on Broadway. Locarro is bringing the show to OU’s stage in its truest form, by sticking to the traditional choreography and style of the show as closely as possible.
"(The goal) is to bring back the passion and intent of the original authors and composers,” Nancy Ross, musical theatre senior, who plays the lead role, said.
“Oh, I’m expecting some tears from the audience,” Justin Armer, acting freshman, said.
Between the emotional impact of the music and the varying plot lines of the show, there will be something for everyone to connect with, Armer said.
The music doesn’t distract from the plot but adds to the intensity and depth of emotion, Ross said.
“The music in the show is grounded thought by thought in the acting,” she said.
While looking for an artistic response to the Sigma Alpha Epsilon incident of last year, it was decided that “Ragtime” was the perfect fit.
“It’s an important show for people to see,” Ross said. “It’s a true glimpse of what America once was, what America is turning into and what we want America to be.”
The story signifies, not only OU’s campus coming together in times of hardship, but also the whole community working toward a better future, Alexandra Johnson, vocal performance junior said.
“Not only will it move people emotionally, but also intellectually. It is a production that speaks to both the mind and the heart,” Johnson said.
The themes of racial equality, immigration, women’s rights, love and loss, are some of the things that make “Ragtime” such an important story, Reyes said.
“Ragtime” opens in the Elsie C. Brackett Theatre on Oct. 16 at 8 p.m. and shows on Oct. 17 at 8 p.m. and Oct. 18 at 3 p.m. Tickets are for sale in the OU Fine Arts Box Office located at 500 W. Boyd St. or on the OU College of Fine Arts website. Advance tickets are $25 for adults, $10 for students; there is an online fee of $5. Tickets are $30 for adults and $15 for students at the door, payable by cash and check only. Because this is considered a special event, military and OU employee discounts are not available.
