Ragtime Reviews

Around The Town Chicago - Highly Recommended

"...If you have never seen this musical, I would suggest you see this version. If you have seen this musical, may I suggest you see THIS production. The genius of Stacy Flaster and what she brought to the stage is worth finding the time. Ant this brings me to the only negative aspect of this production, you only have until November 7th to do so!"

WTTW - Highly Recommended

"...Talk about a phenomenal comeback. Music Theater Works has returned to the live stage with a remarkable production of “Ragtime,” the 1996 musical, adapted by Terrence McNally from the superb E.L. Doctorow novel, and driven by a ravishing, culture-crossing score by Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens that has never received all the plaudits and attention it deserves."

Chicago Theatre Review - Highly Recommended

"...With "Ragtime," Music Theater Works, under the creative guidance of Kyle A. Dougan, has reached a prominence not usually achieved by a new Artistic Director this early in his career. It's a crowning achievement for which the entire cast and artistic team, under Stacey Flaster's fine direction, can be very proud. One can only imagine where this terrific company will go from here because, with this excellent production, they're riding On the Wheels of a Dream."

Chicagoland Musical Theatre - Highly Recommended

"...There is no better musical for thoughtful audiences to emerge from COVID's fog and begin anew to grapple with the realities of the third decade in 21st century America than Stephen Flaherty's (music) and Lynn Ahrnns' (lyrics) anthemic and ballad-laden Ragtime. And Music Theatre Works' radiant production of this 1998 multi-Tony-winner is near-perfect in every way."

Picture This Post - Highly Recommended

"...If you can’t tolerate musical theater this is not for you. For the rest of us, Ragtime is a strong production with standout performances making Music Theater Works’ production of Ragtime a night to remember."

Splash Magazine - Highly Recommended

"...Music Theater Works brings this 13-time Tony Award-nominated musical with its rich, award-winning score by Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens - the lyricist and composer duo behind "Once on This Island " and "Seussical" to its stage. Ragtime, based on the E. L. Doctorow, tells the unforgettable story of an upper-class wife, a determined Jewish immigrant and a young, daring Harlem musician living during the early years of the 20th century. Showcasing the great struggle that accompanies the American Dream and featuring some of the most well-known figures of the time, Ragtime tells the tale of three different individuals who desire a brighter future but must unite to achieve their goals."