Genee Figuieras is a dental hygienist by day, a Broadway-channeling actress by night.

The 31-year-old Lawrence resident made her Topeka Civic Theatre debut July 9 in “Ragtime.”

“I was drawn to ‘Ragtime’ because it is such an exciting show,” Figuieras says. “I just love it.”

Figuieras plays Sarah, one of the lead characters in the musical.

“It’s a challenging role for me, especially the vocal range,” Figuieras says. “And there is a lot to live up to.”

The role of Sarah was originated on Broadway by acclaimed performer Audra McDonald, who won a Tony Award in 1998 for her efforts in the production.

Music director and conductor Nancy Goodall says Figuieras reminds her more of McDonald every day.

“She’s got that something,” Goodall says. “Genee is an amazing singer.”

And she’s got some pretty good company, too.

“Ragtime,” now more than two weeks into its Topeka run, has an on-stage cast of 49.

“The level of performance is very high,” Goodall says. “Most people in the cast have normal, everyday jobs, but are great performers and musicians.”

Peter Hansen, a marketing consultant in Lawrence, plays three roles in the show: fireman, reporter and historic figure J.P. Morgan.

“For me, the quick changes are probably the most challenging part of the show,” Hansen says. “A lot of us are playing multiple characters.”

Hansen has appeared in “half a dozen” Topeka Civic Theatre productions. “Ragtime,” however, marks the first time he has shared the Topeka stage with his 16-year-old son, Chris.

“Our characters don’t interact that much, but it’s still neat,” Hansen says.

The “Ragtime” story celebrates the launch of America’s Industrial Age and the struggles that accompanied it. The plight of immigrants in a welcoming yet distrustful land is a central theme.

“It is a very emotional story,” Figuieras says. “And the music is incredible.”

Goodall says the music is virtually “nonstop” throughout the production, likening “Ragtime” to an opera.

“The music advances the story and keeps the audience riveted,” she says.

Besides Figuieras and the Hansen duo, two other Lawrence performers are involved in “Ragtime.” Mario Bonilla plays five characters in the production, while Misty Rogers covers three roles.

Teresa Longberg, marketing director at the Topeka Civic Theatre, says the show has been a resounding hit so far.

“We’ve been selling out virtually every performance, but we still have a few single seats left,” she says. “And we’ve also added an extra performance on August 8th because of demand.”

The Aug. 8 show begins at 2 p.m. The theatre box office reports more than 100 seats remain.

“Ragtime” is directed by Shannon J. Reilly.