The protagonist and central figure, renowned as the "King of Ragtime." He is depicted in his later years, suffering from illness (syphilis) and grappling with his fading dreams and unfulfilled ambitions. He is a musical genius, haunted by his past, and experiencing mental deterioration.

An allegorical character, representing the spirit and essence of Ragtime music itself. Appears as a whimsical, almost ethereal figure. Embodies the joy, energy, and innovation of Ragtime. Ragtime can morph to represent several characters (Mama; Papa; Will; Belle)

Scott Joplin's devoted wife, who provides support and a grounding presence during his hallucinations. She is loyal, caring, and serves as a connection to reality for Joplin.

A caregiver at the Manhattan State Mental Hospital, attending to Joplin's medical needs. Represents the practical, everyday world contrasting with Joplin's inner turmoil.

Joplin's publisher, an important figure in promoting and distributing his music. Represents the business side of Joplin's career and played a key role in his musical exposure and success.

Scott Joplin's mother, appearing in memory/hallucination. Likely represents Joplin's upbringing and early musical influences.

Scott Joplin's father, appearing in memory/hallucination. Likely represents other aspects of Joplin's upbringing and potentially conflicts or influences that shaped his life.

William Stark, son of John Stark

Daughter of John Stark, and Eleanor Stark.

Maple Leaf | Oscar Brown jr

OSCAR BROWN JR. • JANETH S.ROSAMOND

MAPLE LEAF

Confined to a hospital in his final days, Scott Joplin navigates a fractured reality of memory and music to revisit the brilliant yet tragic legacy of the "King of Ragtime."

SCRIPT SAMPLE

LICENSING INQUIRY

SYNOPSIS

Story Overview (1986)

A poignant and musically sophisticated work that intertwines classical elements with the vibrant rhythms of ragtime.

Oscar Brown Jr. masterfully crafted lyrics for five compositions by the legendary Scott Joplin, the "King of Ragtime Writers," to illuminate his tragic yet inspiring life story. The play transports us to the Manhattan State Mental Hospital, where a mentally and physically deteriorating Joplin lies confined. As he confronts his imminent demise from syphilis and the weight of his unfulfilled ambitions, his reality fractures. He drifts into a world of vivid hallucinations, where memories of his past intermingle with his present suffering. Joplin is visited by his devoted wife, Lottie, who provides a grounding presence, and by a whimsical, almost ethereal figure named Ragtime, who embodies the very essence of his musical genius. Through these encounters, both real and imagined, Joplin revisits the pivotal moments and influential figures that shaped his creative journey.

This richly layered "book musical," further enriched by original songs composed in the classical ragtime idiom, is meticulously researched by Janeth Rosamond of New York, ensuring a historically informed and emotionally resonant portrayal of Joplin's life and legacy.

CHARACTERS

Roles with Descriptions and Traits

SYNCOPATIONS

Music-Elite Syncopations (plays during Act I)

Bethena (also heard in Act I)

Bink’s Waltz (also referenced in Act I)

MUSICAL NUMBER

Song List

The Entertainer

Ragtime Ballet

Maple Leaf Rag

Whores

Ragtime Dance

Solace

Maple Leaf Rag Reprise

PROTOGONIST

Scott Joplin

The central figure. A talented and ambitious African American composer and pianist, known as the "King of Ragtime." He strives for recognition and acceptance of his work, especially his opera "Treemonisha," facing challenges related to racism, artistic limitations, and his own mental and physical health.

Potential Antagonists

Societal Prejudice/Racism: The prevailing racism and discrimination of the time, act as a significant antagonist, hindering Scott's acceptance and recognition.
John Stark (at times): While initially a supporter, Stark's later commercial interests and limitations on Scott's artistic expression can be seen as antagonistic.
Internal Struggles: Scott's own mental health issues, disappointments, and obsession with his opera "Treemonisha" also act as internal antagonists.
"Big Spenders" and Critical Voices: Representing societal judgment and prejudice, they act as antagonists to Scott's acceptance and success.

Role Descriptions

Roles range from central figures like Scott Joplin and Ragtime to supporting roles that provide context and commentary.
Some roles, like the Voices and Big Spenders, are primarily vocal and represent collective attitudes.
Other roles, like Lottie and the Nurse, provide personal interaction and support for Scott.
Historical figures like John Stark represent the music industry and the challenges Scott faced in that world.
The spirit of Ragtime and the character of Treemonisha represent Scott's artistic vision and aspirations.

OSCAR BROWN JR.

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Scott Joplin

Ragtime

Lottie

Nurse

John Stark

Mama

Papa

Will

Belle

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