Displaying items by tag: Baffes Theatre

At a time when Americans are reflecting on the nation's past and future, the Beverly Arts Center is bringing one of Broadway's most celebrated musicals to Chicago's South Side.

From August 27–30, the Beverly Arts Center will present Ragtime in the Baffes Theatre, directed by acclaimed Chicago theater artist Lorenzo Rush Jr. Featuring a large, diverse cast spanning multiple generations, the production celebrates the power of community storytelling while exploring themes that continue to shape the American experience.

Fresh from its celebrated Broadway revival and renewed national acclaim, Ragtime tells the stories of three families—an upper-class White family, a Jewish immigrant and his daughter, and a Black musician fighting for justice—as their lives intertwine during one of the most transformative periods in American history. Set at the turn of the twentieth century, the musical explores immigration, racial inequality, social justice, and the pursuit of the American Dream with a score that has become one of the most beloved in musical theatre.

As the United States reaches its 250th anniversary, Ragtime feels especially timely. More than a historical drama, the musical asks enduring questions about identity, belonging, equality, and whose stories define America.

“Ragtime is a contemporary story, wearing historical clothing,” said Rush Jr. “Because everything in it is very relevant to today. The immigrant story is happening today. The story of a man who believes in America, feels the pain of America, but finds the success of America, is happening today.”

Rush Jr., a Joseph Jefferson Award and Black Theater Alliance Award-winning director and performer, has built an acclaimed career on many of Chicago's most prestigious stages, including Goodman Theatre, Marriott Theatre, Court Theatre, Chicago Shakespeare Theater, Porchlight Music Theatre, and Paramount Theatre. His work in theatre, television, and film has established him as one of Chicago's most versatile artists.

The Beverly Arts Center's production reflects the very themes at the heart of Ragtime, bringing together performers of different ages, backgrounds, and experiences to tell a story that belongs to everyone. The expansive ensemble underscores the musical's message that America's story is built from many voices. "For decades, the Beverly Arts Center has been committed to presenting stories that bring people together," said Dr. Carla Carter, Executive Director of the Beverly Arts Center. "We believe Ragtime is exactly that kind of production—an unforgettable theatrical experience that sparks conversation long after the curtain falls."

Performances will be held in the Baffes Theatre at the Beverly Arts Center, 2407 W. 111th Street, Chicago, from August 27–30.

Tickets are available now at the Beverly Arts Center website and the link below or call our box office at 773-445-3838

https://thebeverlyartscenter.com/event/ragtime/

About the Beverly Arts Center

The Beverly Arts Center has served Chicago's South Side for nearly six decades, presenting professional theatre, concerts, visual arts, dance, film, and arts education that enriches the cultural life of the community.