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Julie Benko and more to join 'Ragtime' Broadway cast

Benko will temporarily step into the role currently played by Shaina Taub, and additional casting updates have been announced for the acclaimed musical revival.

Summary

  • Julie Benko will play Emma Goldman in Ragtime on Broadway from January 9 to March 29 while Shaina Taub takes a leave of absence
  • Ellie May Sennett will take over the role of Little Girl on January 6
  • Paul Slade Smith will play Grandfather from January 13 to February 8
Gillian Russo
Gillian Russo

Lincoln Center Theater has announced casting updates for its production of Ragtime on Broadway, now playing at the Vivian Beaumont Theater through June 14.

Julie Benko (Funny Girl, Harmony) will step into the role of Emma Goldman from January 9 to March 29 while original cast member Shaina Taub takes a previously announced leave of absence. Taub will depart on January 5 and return March 31.

Starting January 6, Ellie May Sennett, the current understudy for the Little Girl, will take over the role full-time from Tabitha Lawing. Aerina DeBoer joins the company as the understudy.

Paul Slade Smith will play the role of Grandfather from January 13 to February 8, and original cast member Tom Nelis will return February 10.

Current Ragtime cast members continuing with the production include Joshua Henry as Coalhouse Walker Jr., Caissie Levy as Mother, Brandon Uranowitz as Tateh, Colin Donnell as Father, Ben Levi Ross as Younger Brother, Nichelle Lewis as Sarah, John Clay III as Booker T. Washington, Rodd Cyrus as Harry Houdini, Anna Grace Barlow as Evelyn Nesbit, and Nick Barrington as The Little Boy.

Ragtime blends the stories of fictional characters and real historical figures to create an epic portrait of early-20th-century New York. Learn more about Ragtime on Broadway.

Get Ragtime tickets now.

Photo credit: Julie Benko. (Photo courtesy of production)

Frequently asked questions

Where is Ragtime playing?

Ragtime is playing at Vivian Beaumont Theater - Lincoln Center Theater. The theatre is located at 150 West 65th Street, New York, 10023.

How long is Ragtime?

The running time of Ragtime is 2hr 45min. Incl. 15min intermission.

How do you book tickets for Ragtime?

Book tickets for Ragtime on New York Theatre Guide.

What's the age requirement for Ragtime?

The recommended age for Ragtime is Ages 10+. Children under the age of 5 are not permitted..

What is Ragtime about?

Ragtime is a sprawling story of New York at the dawn of the twentieth century as three families from different backgrounds collide in search of the American Dream.

What are the songs in Ragtime?

The songs feature music inspired by the ragtime genre itself along with soaring solos, duets, and big ensemble numbers including "New Music," "Til We Reach That Day," "Journey On," "Back to Before," and "Wheels of a Dream."

Who wrote Ragtime?

Ragtime is written by a trio of venerable Broadway legends: a lush score by Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens and a stirring book by Terrence McNally.

Who directs Ragtime?

Tony Award nominee Lear deBessonet directs, marking her inaugural production as Lincoln Center Theater's new Artistic Director.

Is Ragtime appropriate for children?

Ragtime features children in the show, though it does cover themes of death and racism. Children must be four and over to enter Broadway shows.

Is Ragtime good?

Ragtime is a musical theatre classic, winner of multiple Tony Awards, and epic look at American life. It features a grand score and is sure to thrill audiences with its starry cast.

Originally published on

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