Beginning Oct. 8, Ragone, who grew up on the Santa Clara Community Players stage, will play Mr. Erlinson in the famous Stephen Sondheim play. Ragone's character is one of five making up a group reminiscent of a Greek chorus. The group often stops particular scenes, commenting on the past, present and future of the other characters in the play, and basically continues the story line through song.

"It's basically a show within a show," said Ragone, quick to point out that the clever use of characters is not just an artistic device that doesn't translate on the stage. "It's well-crafted and really interesting."

Taking place over one weekend, Night Music brings together several would-be love interests in a country chateau. The entire play is set to a waltz pace, invoking a rhythm of humor and pathos. An art nouveau set creates a backdrop for every aspect of love, from rekindled passion to burgeoning discoveries.

"Sondheim made it a little ambivalent based on a director's take on the characters," Ragone said. "With any show there is a big discovery process to make it interesting."

TheatreWorks veterans take a break from Broadway production to form an all-star cast that includes Charlotte Cornwell, Allen Fitzpatrick and Alice Vienneau for the roles of an aging lawyer, trophy wife and mistress.

Ragone, who began acting in local community theatre in the fifth grade, continued performing through high school. While finishing an undergraduate business degree, he pursued voice and dance training as a hobby. It seemed that college could not distract him from a true passion. Rather than interning after college, Ragone worked more than 10 shows at American Musical Theatre San Jose before moving to New York, where he is now based.

Aspiring to perform in a Broadway musical of "substance" one day, Ragone remains realistic about paying the bills and is not adverse to television or film roles.

"I love singing, love performing, but I also love acting, too," said Ragone of an industry that requires flexibility. "I don't have to totally sacrifice to switch genres."

He admits that nothing compares to a live audience and the instant feedback a performer receives onstage.

"You can tell if something worked in front of an audience--they'll tell you," Ragone said. "I love that aspect."

A Little Night Music runs Oct. 8 through Nov. 2 at the Mountain View Center for the Performing Arts. Tickets are $20­$48. Call 650.903.6000 or go to www.theatreworks.org for more information.