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I have very little, if any, criticism for Portland Center Stage’s production of Ragtime. I have plenty of mean things to say about the story. A little character development would be nice. I’m entirely unconvinced of any character’s motivations. But PCS puts a lot of life into a questionable show. The set is especially surprising. What is traditionally a very gaudy and expensive production, is staged with little more than wooden chairs.

The Ragtime era was between 1897 and 1917. The musical touches on political issues of the time (including the imminent war), but staunchly attempts to tackle the racial problems. Ragtime features characters from three racial/socioeconomic groups: a wealthy white family, a modestly secure black couple, and a poor Jewish immigrant and his daughter. The black couple and immigrant family suffer unfathomable injustices and traumas, while the mother of the rich white family (played by the stunningly talented Susannah Mars) attempts to heal all but the most crucial conflicts with her compassion.

I’m not sure I would recommend Ragtime anywhere else, but PCS’s cast and production perform nobly and passionately. I saw old ladies crying in the audience. Yes. I would recommend seeing it here.

RAGTIME The Musical from Portland Center Stage on Vimeo.

Get tickets in advance. While many of those waiting for rush tickets on Friday did manage to get them, the house was packed (possibly down to the last seat). Don’t count on buying tickets just before the show. The final performances of Ragtime are this weekend, ending on November 1st.

Shows are Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.
Portland Center Stage
128 NW Eleventh Avenue,