The idea of the interactive theatre experience is nothing new. From “whodunit” dinner parties to whatever it is people get up to at those Rocky Horror screenings, there’s always been a market for those of us who want to feel a part of the action. Even sitting front row at a comedy show brings out the more daring individuals.
But few interactive productions gained the level of talk and acclaim that Punchdrunk’s Sleep No More had when it was unveiled in New York City in 2011. Its unique take on the classic story of Macbeth redefined the immersive experience as an art form into itself, and set a new bar for the genre to follow. You can read my full article on the experience HERE.
Sadly, this Off-Broadway production ended in January 2025. But then, somewhat quietly, that show’s producer Randy Weiner, launched a new immersive Off-Broadway project in September of the same year: Masquerade.
Masquerade is a new take on Andrew Lloyd Webber’s classic Phantom of the Opera – which, though it closed in 2023, remains the longest running Broadway show of all time.
Unlike Sleep No More, which is something of an immersive choose your own adventure, Masquerade is a guided, mostly linear experience through six floors of an Opera House, hidden behind the facade of Lee’s Art Shop. If you didn’t see the line of people standing out front, you’ve probably never know the show was there.
A password is provided to ticket holders on the day of the performance that will be asked of you to gain entrance. Which, like the show that follows, is carefully and skillfully organised. There are six performances that happen at once, with entries every 15 minutes for a new group of 60 people. So precision is key here – and boy do they do an incredible job at every step of the journey. Directing us all from one room to the next is a task enough for the talented crew, but they’ll also split your group along the way at breakneck speed. It’s incredible to witness and be a part of.
Before you enter, they’ll also come through to make sure you’ve arrived in the requisite formal attire. If you don’t come dressed in silver, white or black, you will be given something else to wear, or not permitted entry at all. A mask is also required, to cover your eyes – so guests can be clearly distinguished from the cast. But they have some lovely lacey black ones available, with the Phantom’s mask woven into it. So I’d recommend collecting one on arrival. I’ve had it hanging in my apartment ever since.
After you are checked in, and you check your bags, you wait for them to welcome you into the show. What follows is one of the most extraordinary theatrical experiences I’ve ever had. You experience about 75% of the original Phantom show, and its music, with all the passion of the Broadway show. Sometimes music bleeds from one room into the other, but if it wasn’t for that, you’d never know anyone else was in the space.
From the commitment of the actors, to the details of the sets and the logistics of moving people through the space, everything about this show is jaw-droppingly impressive.
It still gives me goosebumps thinking of walking into the show’s opening scene – the Masquerade ball – and having this whole world introduced to you. Characters literally pull you in, even dance with you. To borrow from another show’s classic music, you were a part of their world, and it was one I was in no rush to leave.
Our cast was incredibly talented, and I’d go so far as to say that getting to feel like you were interacting with these iconic characters was even quite emotional.
Whether you’re a fan of Phantom or not, so much of the show sticks with you long after. The roof scene in particular is now a core memory. What an incredible move on behalf of the show’s team, and director Diane Paulus, to make everything about the production feel like a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The show would have been just as good with half of the bells and whistles they employ. But they did, and it’s a credit to them and their dedication to making this show something special.
Like in Sleep No More, there are some one-on-one interactions that will happen between you and the cast. You might leave with a souvenir from the encounter. I had a bracelet made out of a piece of string from a boy in a cage who called me over to him. Others got detailed pieces of paper and props from scenes in the show. No two experiences are going to be the same.
The nature of the production has given liberties to producers to adapt the classic Andrew Lloyd Webber show in a way that will make it feel fresh and new. Which, for fans of the longest running Broadway musical of all time, should be thrilling. Though purists may argue otherwise, I now feel like there is no better way to experience Phantom. But don’t expect the experience to ever tour outside of New York City.
At the end of Masquerade, you’re taken into a bar with the participants of the other five shows that were happening that night, as you wipe tears from your face. Here, you can finally take your phones out (their cameras are covered before you enter the show), and treat yourself to some photos with some set pieces, and enjoy a delicious cocktail. That room is itself worth the trip to W 57th Street, and gives you the chance to discuss your experience with the friends you went with, and the strangers who shared it with you.
As I raved about from the moment I stepped into that bar: this is one of the best theatrical experiences I’ve had in my lifetime. The logistics are mind-boggling and the cast and crew’s skill and attention to detail truly makes this a monumental production. I was filled with awe and glee for every moment and I can’t recommend the show enough.
Masquerade is not to be missed.
FIVE STARS (OUT OF FIVE)
To book your own time with Masquerade, which is currently scheduled to run through 31st January 2027, head HERE.
Photos by Andy Henderson, Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman; Exterior shot by the author.
