SAN DIEGO, CA--(Marketwire - January 27, 2011) - Young Actors' Theater (YAT), brings this question to life on stage in, RAGTIME, The Musical. This heart wrenching story explores the controversial subject of racism as three extraordinary families confront history's timeless contradictions of wealth and poverty, freedom and prejudice, hope and despair, and what it means to live in America.
Educated musician, Coalhouse Walker, Jr. soon discovers that he is still living in a racist world when his family is traumatized by the bigoted white people of his community who feel the need to harass him because he has a car, which is a status symbol. When his car is vandalized, he takes justice into his own hands and soon the surrounding communities of New York, in upheaval.
RAGTIME is not only a powerful portrait of life in turn-of-the-century America, but a relevant tale for contemporary society. Written by the award-winning composer/lyricist team of Stephen Flaherty and Lynn Ahrens ("Once On This Island," "Seussical," "Lucky Stiff"), noted playwright Terrence McNally, ("Kiss of the Spider Woman", "Master Class"), and is based on E.L. Doctorow's distinguished novels on achieving the American Dream.
Young Actors Theatre is pleased to once again push the envelope for producing musicals that are unique, challenging and different. Presented by YAT's senior division (grades 7 through college age students) RAGTIME'S cast will have the audience moved to tears, as they tell this inspirational story. Award winning music director, JOHN NETTLES, aptly leads the cast and the orchestra in tight harmonies and haunting melodies. Directed by JEAN ISAAC, and choreographed by PERRY LEE, RAGTIME, The Musical is a "must see production" for families, students, adults, and history buffs.
Young Actors' Theatre production of RAGTIME, the Musical will be presented at ENCORE! Theatre located at 9620 Campo Road, Spring Valley, CA 91977 on March 17, 18, 19, 24, 25 & 26 @ 7pm and March 20 & 27 @ 2pm. Ticket prices are $12-$15. For tickets please go to www.yatsandiego.org or call 619-670-1267.
About Young Actors' Theatre
Founded in 2002 and headquartered in Spring Valley, California, Young Actors' Theatre is a non-profit organization providing life-changing theatrical experiences and training to youths of all ages in a positive and supportive environment. Led by Jean M. Isaac, Young Actors' Theatre offers year-round classes and productions for children ages 6-25, and its educational outreach initiatives bring drama workshops, residencies and teacher training to schools and community groups throughout San Diego. Young Actors' Theatre has received numerous honors including the Playbill® "Billy" and a variety of National Youth Theatre Awards. The company can be reached through its Web site at www.yatsandiego.org or via telephone at 619-670-1627.
Note to Editors: Free tickets are available to journalists seeking to attend this event for professional review purposes. Please contact Jean Isaac jisaac@yatsandiego.org or call 619-670-1267, with desired attendance date, press credential and full mailing address.
Contact Information:
Company Contact:
Jean Isaac
Executive Director
Young Actors' Theatre
619-670-1627