'Masquerade,' the immersive reinterpretation of the 'Phantom of the Opera,' set to launch an exclusive post-show concert series

This summer, New York City's vibrant theatre scene expands its offerings with an innovative extension to the Off-Broadway production, Masquerade. Known for its immersive reimagining of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom of the Opera, Masquerade is set to elevate the post-performance experience with a new concert series titled After the Curtain.

The initiative transforms the Lake Bar, an elegant and accessible venue adjacent to the show, into a hub for late-night musical performances throughout July and August. This collaboration with Concerts Under the Stars invites audiences to linger beyond the mainstage, enjoying a blend of jazz-infused melodies and Broadway classics.

Masquerade itself has garnered attention for its fresh interpretation of a beloved musical, providing audiences with a novel perspective that goes beyond traditional staging. The show's approach offers a site-specific and immersive encounter, deepening the narrative and musical engagement in a way that has resonated with critics and theatregoers alike.

After the Curtain builds upon this spirit of artistic exploration by curating a series of performances that fuse genres and eras. The concerts commence on Friday, July 10, featuring Emmy-nominated trumpeter and vocalist Benny Benack III. His set pays homage to seminal figures like Frank Sinatra and Louis Armstrong, evoking the golden age of jazz standards.

Following him, Broadway actress Ciara Renée will bring a culturally rich program on Tuesday, July 21. Her performance honors French musical legends Édith Piaf and Josephine Baker, highlighting the enduring influence of their artistry on both jazz and theatrical traditions.

Later in the summer, on Friday, August 7, classical crossover artist Natalie Tenenbaum will present a musically ambitious journey. Her repertoire spans centuries of musical innovation, tracing a path from Beethoven’s compositions to Beyoncé’s contemporary hits, illustrating the continuum of musical excellence.

The series concludes on Friday, August 21 with Bernard Scahill, the founder of Concerts Under the Stars and producer of After the Curtain. His performance promises an inventive fusion, reinterpreting iconic Broadway anthems through the lens of improvisational jazz, thus offering a fresh auditory experience.

Masquerade, which is scheduled to run through January 31, 2027, continues to redefine how audiences engage with classic theatrical material. The addition of After the Curtain allows patrons to extend their immersion into a curated musical atmosphere that complements the show’s innovative essence.

For fans of theatre and live music alike, this initiative represents a unique opportunity to experience a sophisticated blend of genres in a dynamic setting. While ticketing and further details are available through Masqueradenyc.com/latenight, the series already signals a promising enhancement to New York’s cultural nightlife.