Long-held dreams are finally realized as multifaceted talent Anna Grace Barlow makes her highly anticipated Broadway debut, stepping into the iconic and scandalous role of Evelyn Nesbit in the critically acclaimed revival of ‘Ragtime’. This article delves into Barlow’s inspiring journey from Alabama’s community theaters and Hollywood’s screens back to the New York stage, exploring her preparation for a character deeply woven into early 20th-century American history and the enduring legacy of this powerful musical.
The lights of Broadway are set to shine brighter as Anna Grace Barlow fulfills a lifelong aspiration, gracing the stage in the much-anticipated revival of ‘Ragtime’. The acclaimed musical, a powerful narrative about the American Dream at the turn of the 20th century, sees Barlow take on the pivotal role of Evelyn Nesbit, a historical figure synonymous with celebrity and scandal.
The Enduring Legacy of ‘Ragtime‘: A Classic Revitalized
Based on E. L. Doctorow’s profound novel, ‘Ragtime’ weaves together the intricate lives of three distinct American families—a wealthy white family, a Black Harlem pianist named Coalhouse Walker Jr., and a Jewish immigrant named Tateh. Set in 1906, the musical powerfully explores themes of race, class, and social justice, all against the vivid backdrop of real historical figures like Harry Houdini, Emma Goldman, and Evelyn Nesbit.
The original production, featuring music by Stephen Flaherty, lyrics by Lynn Ahrens, and a book by Terrence McNally, made its grand debut on Broadway on January 18, 1998, at the then-new Ford Center for the Performing Arts. It garnered significant critical acclaim, having previously won top theatre awards during its gestation in Toronto and Los Angeles, as detailed by Playbill. Its timely themes and sweeping score have ensured its place as a modern classic, making any revival a highly anticipated event for theater enthusiasts.
Stepping into Scandal: Anna Grace Barlow as Evelyn Nesbit
For Anna Grace Barlow, portraying Evelyn Nesbit is a full-circle moment. Nesbit was a real-life sensation of the early 20th century, a famous model and showgirl whose image was irrevocably tied to a notorious scandal when her millionaire husband, Harry Kendall Thaw, murdered architect Stanford White, with whom she had been involved. In ‘Ragtime’, Nesbit embodies the era’s fascination with celebrity and the darker side of public life.
Barlow’s connection to the role runs deep; she even auditioned for Nesbit in her high school production, though she didn’t get the part then. Years later, after submitting a self-tape and acing an in-person callback, the dream became a reality. “It’s been so fun to do research on her, because there’s so much information out there,” Barlow shared with Parade, highlighting the character’s profound depth and purpose within the musical’s intricate narrative.
From Birmingham to Broadway: Anna Grace’s Formative Years
Barlow’s journey to the New York stage began in Alabama, where she moved from Mississippi at age 11. Music was her first love, influenced heavily by her father, an accomplished singer and pianist. She started with violin in kindergarten, playing for nine years, before a deep dive into vocal training after an obsession with Nat King Cole’s ‘L-O-V-E’ from the 1998 film ‘The Parent Trap’. This quickly led to a profound passion for performing.
Her preteen and teenage years were spent honing her acting skills at various community theaters in Birmingham, including the Red Mountain Theatre Company, Magic City Actor’s Theatre, and the Starz program. Her parents, both doctors, were incredibly supportive, making it their mission to understand and champion her artistic world. Anna Grace’s passion for performance also runs in the family; her younger sister, Abigail, a talented vocalist, songwriter, actress, and dancer, also pursues a career in the industry.
The Hollywood Detour and the Call of the Stage
After a year of musical theater studies at Pace University in New York City, Barlow took a detour to Los Angeles. Encouraged by her then-teacher and now-manager Lynne Marks, she went to California for headshots and ended up staying for a decade. She fell in love with LA’s vibrant atmosphere, its palm trees, weather, and people, finding it remarkably similar to her Southern roots. During this period, she built a substantial resume with appearances in television shows like ‘Scream Queens’, ‘Summer Forever’, and ‘The Fosters’.
A significant highlight of her LA years was originating the character of Alyssa in the pre-Broadway musical ‘The Prom’. This complex role, depicting a lesbian cheerleader harboring a secret love, was one of the most challenging and rewarding acting experiences of her life. Despite her success in film and television, the pull of the stage remained strong. Two years ago, Barlow and her husband, a fellow Southern boy from Knoxville, made the move back to New York City, setting the stage for her ultimate Broadway dream.
Dreams, Challenges, and Southern Comforts
Barlow’s aspirations extend beyond her Broadway debut. Her bucket list includes a starring role in a blockbuster movie, a regular role on a long-running television show (especially multi-cam sitcoms for their live audience feel), and for Broadway, originating a role—which she considers the pinnacle of her theater dreams. She candidly acknowledges the challenges of her profession, particularly battling butterflies in audition settings, a continuous effort to remain relaxed and connected.
Despite living on the West Coast for a decade and now in New York, Anna Grace remains deeply connected to her Southern roots. She misses specific Alabama bites, dreaming of Gilchrist’s BLTs and limeade, and the unparalleled Mexican food from La Paz. Her parents frequently send care packages filled with comforting homemade poppy seed chicken, Milo’s cheese fries, Urban Cookhouse veggies, and even Bojangle’s bo-berry biscuits. Her biggest Hollywood inspirations include Anna Kendrick for her ability to blend singing into acting projects without pursuing a pop music career, and she dreams of acting alongside Kendrick, Reese Witherspoon in film, and Jessie Mueller in theater.
A Dream Come True on Broadway
Anna Grace Barlow’s journey to the Broadway stage is a testament to perseverance, talent, and the unwavering pursuit of a dream. Her portrayal of Evelyn Nesbit in the ‘Ragtime’ revival promises to be a nuanced and compelling performance, adding another layer to the already rich tapestry of this significant American musical. The revival, featuring a stellar cast including Joshua Henry, Caissie Levy, and Brandon Uranowitz, is set to captivate audiences at the Vivian Beaumont Theater at Lincoln Center, running until January 4. For fans of classic tales and compelling theater, Barlow’s debut is a moment not to be missed.
