Set in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Ragtime King follows the highs and lows of Joplin's extraordinary life, highlighting his passionate desire to elevate ragtime to a respected form of classical music. Amid the backdrop of America's complex racial landscape, Joplin faces the challenges of racism, the music industry's indifference, and personal tragedy while attempting to make his mark on history.
The series delves into his early years in Texas, where he first encountered music, and his decision to leave home to pursue his dreams in St. Louis and New York. As Joplin struggles to gain recognition, we see his creative genius shine through in his compositions, but also the personal toll of living in an era where Black artists were often relegated to the margins. The story explores his creation of legendary pieces, his determination to have ragtime performed in concert halls rather than saloons, and his struggle to be taken seriously in an era dominated by classical music.
The miniseries will also delve into his personal relationships, including his marriages and the emotional strain of being a misunderstood artist. His ambitious opera Treemonisha, often overshadowed by his ragtime hits, is a poignant focal point of the series, illustrating his dedication to pushing the boundaries of what ragtime could be.
