“This entire revitalized gothic romance with its 1980s guitar riffs has that invigorating effect.”
Off-BwayMusicalRevival
OFF-BROADWAYMUSICALREVIVALNOW PLAYING
Masquerade
Masquerade NYC · 2h · Opened Sep 29, 2025 · Closes Jan 31, 2027
Critics' Take
Paulus's immersive "Phantom" remix divides critics, who praise its atmospheric spectacle and intimate staging but question whether the gimmicky format justifies shuffling audiences through dimly lit hallways for two hours.
Critic Scorecard
13 reviewsSort:
“The result of this world creation is a truly moving, unforgettable experience that takes you to the darkest depths of the human mind; yet it still provides hope for a brighter future filled with music and light.”
“Directed by Diane Paulus, Masquerade is a striking show, in which more things are impressive, rather than—as can be the bane of so much immersive theater—exhausting and tiresome.”
“Paulus and team have pulled off something miraculous: an immersive evening that retains the essence and dramatic arc of its source material.”
“Ultimately, it’s the intimacy of the environment that makes Masquerade such a special experience.”
Audience Scorecard
2.7K audience reviews
A+
Loving It
Awards Scorecard
35
Honored
Outer Critics:1 win / 6 nomsDrama League:1 nom
Showtimes
This Week(Aug 3–9)
Frequently Asked Questions
What do critics say about Masquerade?
Paulus's immersive "Phantom" remix divides critics, who praise its atmospheric spectacle and intimate staging but question whether the gimmicky format justifies shuffling audiences through dimly lit hallways for two hours. (CriticScore 70/100 from 13 reviews.)
Is Masquerade worth seeing?
Probably, if the material interests you. Critics say Masquerade is worth seeing (70/100 from 13 reviews) — it works best if the premise or cast appeals to you.
What is the CriticScore for Masquerade?
Masquerade has a CriticScore of 70/100 based on 13 professional reviews. This is rated "Worth Seeing".
Is Masquerade still running Off-Broadway?
Yes, Masquerade is currently playing at Masquerade NYC Off-Broadway. It is scheduled to close on January 31, 2027.
Where is Masquerade playing Off-Broadway?
Masquerade is playing at Masquerade NYC.
How long is Masquerade?
Masquerade has a runtime of 2 hours with no intermission.
Cast
Cast information is not yet available for this production.
Creative Team
- Diane PaulusDirector
Quick Facts
- CriticScore
- 70/100 (13 reviews)
- Status
- Now Playing
- Opened
- Sep 29, 2025
- Closes
- Jan 31, 2027
- Running
- 11 months Off-Broadway
- Runtime
- 2h
- Intermissions
- 0
- Theater
- Masquerade NYC
- Synopsis
- The hero of the drama, Arbenin, is a wealthy middle-aged man endowed with a rebellious spirit and a strong will. Born into high society, he strives in vain to gain independence and freedom. He lives by the laws of his society, and, in trying to defend his honor while blinded by jealousy and pride, ends up murdering his wife.
- Data Last Updated
- August 8, 2026
