But Galati and Daniele have subsequently encountered unexpected scheduling conflicts. "[They] are an integral part of this team," the company said in a statement released this morning, "and due to their unavailability, City Opera is delaying its production until the entire team is available to work on the piece."

The musical, which was scheduled to open at the New York State Theater on April 8, 2008, will be replaced in the repertory by a musical theater work to be announced shortly. Refunds or exchanges will be available to patrons who have already purchased tickets to Ragtime as part of their subscription.

Single tickets for the City Opera 2007-2008 season go on sale on Monday, August 6. For questions regarding subscriptions please call 1-212-496-0600. More information on the company's 2007-08 season is available at www.nycopera.com.