LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — Jefferson County Public Schools responded Thursday morning to controversy surrounding a musical production at a local high school.
The cast and crew of the duPont Manual High School's Youth Performing Arts School production of "Ragtime" posted a video on social media Tuesday that quickly gained traction, accusing the district of pulling the plug on the show.
"Our own school district, Jefferson County Public Schools, is shutting down our production because they feel the material will offend too many members of our community," the students said.
Auditions for the production happened at the end of last school year, and students said the news that it was being canceled came out of the blue.
"Ragtime" is a show centered around immigration, social class and racial injustice while seeking the American Dream at the start of the 20th Century.Â
"It tells the story of them three coming together, the struggles, the beauty," said YPAS student Emmie Siegel.
The show tackles what students describe as raw and difficult history.
"Specifically, I think people may have been concerned by the use of the N-word," said YPAS student Jeremiah Stephens. "But if we're portraying this time, that language was there in this time."
Stephens said it's a story the students and teachers discussed at length on how they'd navigate telling.
"There was a lot of conscious effort into this because we wanted to approach it with honesty and nuance," Stephens said.
Students said the shock came from their principal on Wednesday.
"He basically informed us we would have to halt our production of Ragtime, and if I'm remembering correctly, it's because certain communities felt it would be offensive to them," Stephens said.
Silenced on stage, the students took their voices online.
"If you believe in the power of storytelling, please support us by reaching out to JCPS," students said in the social media video.
The post racked up half a million views, catching the attention of Broadway stars including Kristin Chenoweth, Kayla Pecchioni and Sarah Jessica Parker.
Thursday morning, JCPS shared a statement that said, in part, that there was some confusion and miscommunication regarding the show.Â
The district said the show was not canceled, and will move forward as planned.
"JCPS values the role of arts education in helping students build confidence, creativity, discipline and a deeper understanding of the world around them," the statement read. "Performances at YPAS provide students with meaningful opportunities to learn through collaboration, artistic expression and engagement with complex ideas."
JCPS said it conducted a review of the show, saying some of the language and subject matter include terms and references that may be sensitive or difficult for some audience members.Â
"The goal was not to prevent students from participating, but to make sure the work is presented with care, educational purpose and respect for all members of our school community," the statement continued.
The district thanked those who engaged in the conversation and shared their perspectives as it worked through the process.
"During that review process, information about the production's status was not communicated clearly, which led to understandable questions and concern," JCPS said. "We apologize for the confusion and appreciate the patience and engagement of our students, families, educators and community partners."
School Board Member Taylor Everett said the principal was informed the show was canceled by a single, unnamed person at central office who assumed a decision had been made when it hadn't.
"There's some growth to happen there about how decisions are made," Stephens said.
Stephens said for the actors, the production was never just about a musical, but about using the stage to reflect the reality of the world.
"I think art has a really sneaky way of touching people when they don't expect it," Stephens said.
Stephens said the students are glad their voices were heard.
In a letter sent to families Thursday, duPont Manual Principal Michael Newman said he wanted to "clear the air immediately," saying the production is moving forward as planned.
"Our students, cast, and crew have poured immense talent, energy, and dedication into preparing for this performance. Ragtime is a vital historical work that explores complex themes of race, immigration, class and identity. Because the piece includes sensitive language reflective of its historical setting, district leadership initiated a review to ensure our students and audience have the proper context, educational guidance, and support to engage with the material thoughtfully and with sensitivity," Newman wrote. "Our school administration, YPAS staff, and district leadership fully support this production and our students. We apologize for the confusion and anxiety that occurred yesterday.
"We are immensely proud of our YPAS performers, crew, and creative directors. Thank you for your patience, advocacy, and deep commitment to our arts community. We cannot wait to join you in the audience to celebrate the remarkable work of our students when the curtain goes up."
You can read the full statement from JCPS below:
"There has been some confusion and miscommunication regarding the status of Ragtime, the upcoming production at duPont Manual High School’s Youth Performing Arts School. To be clear, Ragtime has not been canceled. The production will move forward as planned.
"JCPS values the role of arts education in helping students build confidence, creativity, discipline and a deeper understanding of the world around them. Performances at YPAS provide students with meaningful opportunities to learn through collaboration, artistic expression and engagement with complex ideas.
"As part of our responsibility to students, families and the community, JCPS conducted its due diligence regarding this production. That process included connecting with community organizations and stakeholders, consulting with other school districts and arts education programs, researching best practices, and considering how schools can responsibly present works that explore difficult and significant parts of history.
"Ragtime examines and explores themes of immigration, race, class, identity and the pursuit of the American Dream. Because the production reflects the realities of its historical setting, some of the language and subject matter include terms and references that may be sensitive or difficult for some audience members. Recognizing those sensitivities is an important part of presenting the work responsibly in an educational environment.
"Our review focused on ensuring students and audiences have the appropriate context, support and guidance to engage with the production in a thoughtful way. The goal was not to prevent students from participating, but to make sure the work is presented with care, educational purpose and respect for all members of our school community.
"When complex issues arise, it is natural for people to have immediate reactions based on their experiences, values and concerns. The strength of a community is reflected in our ability to move beyond simply reacting and instead take time to listen, ask questions, seek understanding and respond thoughtfully. JCPS appreciates everyone who engaged in this conversation and shared their perspectives as we worked through this process.
"During that review process, information about the production’s status was not communicated clearly, which led to understandable questions and concern. We apologize for the confusion and appreciate the patience and engagement of our students, families, educators and community partners.
"JCPS remains committed to supporting YPAS students, educators and families. We look forward to celebrating the hard work of the cast, crew and creative team as they bring Ragtime to the stage."
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