As someone who has always struggled with liking my own name, I found myself deeply moved when I heard Joshua Henry perform it in Ragtime. There’s something truly powerful about hearing your name sung with such emotion and respect that it makes you reconsider your own feelings towards it. Musicals, especially shows like Ragtime, can bring a fresh perspective to everyday things—like how a name can carry a story, a history, or even a sense of pride. I used to think my name was plain or unremarkable, but listening to Joshua Henry made me see names as more than just labels. They hold identity and connection to a larger community. The way the music and lyrics intertwine in Ragtime adds layers of meaning that words alone sometimes can’t convey. For anyone who has ever felt disconnected from their own name, I highly recommend experiencing a musical performance that highlights names with such heartfelt artistry. This experience also made me reflect on the importance of representation in musicals. When performers bring their own experiences into their roles, it creates moments that resonate so deeply with audiences. It reminds us that names, and the stories behind them, are worthy of celebration, no matter how we might have felt about them before.