The year is 1977, and we are standing in New York City’s most famous nightclub. Guests, dressed to the nines and sipping on champagne, mingle with the likes of David Bowie, Michael Jackson and Dianna Ross. This is the world-famous Studio 54—or, at least, Secret Theatre’s version of it.
In the British immersive theatre company’s latest production The New York Secret, Mandala Club is transformed into the iconic discotheque from ‘70s and ‘80s Manhattan—known for its exclusivity and famous clientele. The idea, shares actor and director Richard Crawford, came from a night out with friends in 2009 to see indie rock band Yeah Yeah Yeahs.
“The girls were all dressed like lead singer Karen O, and she was singing on the stage, but it was on the same level as us, so we were really close. Everyone was singing along, and she jumped into the crowd. In that moment, I thought, that is immersion. That’s something that doesn’t happen in theatre,” he shares, “With this production, I wanted to go back to the feeling of that night.”
The result: a nightlife experience like no other. The New York Secret begins before guests even step foot into the club. “After purchasing a ticket, you can message David Bowie, who’s a character in the show. He will send you ideas for what to wear, hints about the other famous people who are going to be in that evening, and little objectives that help you build up to the journey of the evening,” explains Crawford. “It just gives it that extra kind of bit of excitement prior to the event, which I think is nice. People have been asking David everything from relationship advice to job advice which is quite funny. I think it’s little things like that which make the experience cool. Then, the hope is that as soon as you step into the event, you also understand the world, and get to meet the characters.”
Upon entering the club on the night itself, guests are greeted by some of the most recognisable faces of the in ‘80s music. There’s plenty of time to grab a bite, approach the performers for a chat or take to the dance floor—before performances of the artists’ most iconic hits begin. When we visited, guests even asked one of the performers if they could help with his make-up, to which he gracefully acquiesced.
The evening feels less like a theatre production, and more like a specially themed night at the club—the biggest testament, perhaps, to Secret Theatre’s approach to immersion. As the line between theatre and nightlife blurs, it’s easy to forget you’re in a play, and instead just let loose and enjoy a spectacular night out.
Book a ticket for The New York Secret here.
