McGRATHPR.com – Congratulations to The Company Theatre of Norwell on receiving six Independent Reviewers of New England (IRNE) theatre award nominations for its 2018 summer production of Ragtime the Musical.
Company programmed Ragtime as the kickoff to its 40th anniversary celebration as the South Shore’s regional theater.
The epic musical was home to a vast regionally-sourced cast of 40 actors of all ages and backgrounds, a celebration of the diversity and social justice the theater’s founders hold dear to their hearts.
The Company Theatre first produced Ragtime in 2003, at a time when many other social issues were hot topics, bolstering the timelessness of this important theatrical work. The 2018 production was host to many highlights, bringing celebrity actors to its stage. Peter Adams revived his role as “Father” from the Ragtime National Tour. Michael Hammond starred in the leading role of “Tateh” performing adjacent to his lifetime best friend Paula Markowicz in the role of “Mother” in a long awaited stage reunion. Noted Boston actors Davron Monroe and Todd McNeel Jr. portrayed the roles of “Coalhouse Walker Jr.” and “Booker T. Washington” respectively.
Set pieces from the original Broadway national tour were staged by special arrangement for this production. Prior tech director and current building supervisor Bob Grazioso created an exact authentic replica Ford Model T that wowed audiences and cast alike.
Unbridled optimism prevailed throughout the performances, with a grand ensemble cast that celebrated the spirit of freedom remarkably relevant in today’s social climate. The anthem “Make Them Hear You” captured the essence of the musical’s objective to raise awareness and the need to provoke change – a treasured source of inspiration for the performing artists, directors and orchestra.
Ragtime the Musical’s IRNE Award nominations include:
Best Musical: Ragtime the Musical
Best Directors of a Musical: Zoe Bradford and Jordie Saucerman
Best Musical Director: Steve Bass
Best Supporting Actress in a Musical: Paula Markowicz
Best Supporting Actor in a Musical: Michael Hammond
Best Ensemble: Ragtime the Musical
IRNE award recipients will be announced at a ceremony on Monday, April 8, 7:30 pm at The Inn at Brookline.
The Tony Award® winning musical Ragtime’s book is by Terrence McNally, lyrics by Lynn Ahrens, and music by Stephen Flaherty. The productions was directed by Zoe Bradford and Jordie Saucerman, with music direction by Steve Bass and choreography by Sally Forrest, and set design by Ryan Barrow.
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