‘Ragtime’ at Rubicon: Young Performer Bringing History to Life

At just 13 years old, Chance Challen is already a seasoned performer, and he is once again bringing his talents to the stage in Rubicon Theatre Company’s production of Ragtime in Ventura. In this powerful musical set at the turn of the 20th century, Challen takes on the role of a young boy living in a time of tremendous change, opportunity, and uncertainty.

For Challen, this role is an opportunity to do more than perform in a celebrated musical. It is a chance to step into another era, explore a different world, and help tell a story that continues to resonate with audiences today. Challen explains: “Ragtime is a musical set in early 1900s that tells a story that has taught me more about the world than any other show I have been a part of. I will never forget this story and this music – something emotional happens when you see this show and it doesn’t leave you.”

Performing onstage at 13 is an impressive accomplishment, and Challen’s participation in Ragtime highlights the dedication and skill required of young performers working alongside a professional theatrical company. Bringing a character from the early 1900s to life calls for more than learning lines and songs. It requires imagination, emotional awareness, and the ability to connect with an audience across generations. Challen shares: “I feel that pre-teenage boys of the past and today are very much the same but the specifics of their lives are different. For example, in the show, we talk about new technologies like moving pictures and electricity. These are just as exciting as the new technologies of the modern-day world. There are also a lot of changes in the world with regards to immigrants and racism; my character is part of the hopefulness that this show has despite a lot of the injustice that is presented.

At its heart, Ragtime is a story about dreams, belonging, family, and the pursuit of a brighter future. Its themes remain relevant today, reminding audiences how individual lives intersect with the larger events shaping society. And the score is incredible! Says Challen: “The music is unforgettable not only because it is so powerful but also because the songs themselves are part of the story telling.” Rubicon Theatre Company’s production offers local audiences the opportunity to experience this remarkable musical live, with performers bringing its memorable characters and powerful story to life. The presence of young talent like Challen adds another meaningful dimension to the production, demonstrating how theater connects generations of performers and audiences alike. For Challen, who just returned from a year-long tour of the musical Mrs. Doubtfire, it’s a chance to perform in front of a home-town crowd: “I live in Santa Barbara, so performing at the Rubicon is great because it is so close to home. I get to see my family and pets and it’s only a 30-minute drive away!” Challen was also in Rubicon’s production of Bonnie & Clyde two years ago, so local audiences may remember seeing him in that show as well!

Whether you are a longtime musical theater enthusiast, a supporter of emerging young talent, or simply looking for an unforgettable live theater experience, Ragtime promises an evening filled with music, emotion, and thought-provoking storytelling. Challen agrees: “Ragtime is a magnificent show and the way our production team has made the intimate space at the Rubicon Theater adapt to this grandness makes you feel so close to what is happening onstage. It is a unique way to experience Ragtime!” 

Ragtime also marks a major milestone for the Rubicon: for those who have been part of the theatrical community in Santa Barbara and Ventura, Ragtime is the swan song for the original founders of the Rubicon, Karyl Lynn Burns and James O’Neil. The two founded Rubicon in 1998 and have overseen nearly 200 productions for the company. Ragtime marks the final production for Karyl Lynn as she is stepping down after this show. We wish them well!  

Ragtime runs at the Rubicon Theatre in Ventura till Sunday, November 15th. Tickets are available at: https://rubicontheatre.org