About Moonrise
Moonrise is a one-of-a-kind immersive performance venue and cocktail lounge in Bushwick, Brooklyn. Designed by Lara Jacobs Rigolo (a former Cirque du Soleil performer) and her Rigolo Swiss Nouveau Cirque, it opened in fall 2021 as an intimate theater celebrating the “13 ancient Moon Goddesses” (www.timeout.com) (www.mapquest.com). This street-level space at 1329 Willoughby Ave features a high-ceilinged, industrial-chic interior (19-foot ceilings, full HVAC, modern fire/sprinkler systems) fitted with a full bar, lounge areas, and a dedicated sound/tech booth (www.loopnet.com). Moonrise’s programming mixes live circus arts, music and dance with dramatic cocktails and décor – the official description calls it an immersive world that “stimulates] all the senses” and supports an evening of ritual-like storytelling ([www.mapquest.com) (www.moonrise.nyc). In short, it’s less a conventional nightclub and more an immersive theatre experience wrapped in a lounge setting, making it a distinctive fixture in Brooklyn’s nightlife and arts scene. (The venue has even earned a TripAdvisor “Travelers’ Choice” nod for its consistently positive reviews.)
Events and Programming
Moonrise hosts immersive circus-theater shows and themed cocktail events, mainly on weekend evenings. The core offering is the “Moonrise Show” – a staged, narrative-driven performance that highlights one of the mythical moon goddesses in each installment. Acts typically include aerial acrobatics, contortion, dance, sculptural performances, and a signature balance act originally created for Cirque du Soleil (www.moonrise.nyc). In this high-concept Nouveau Cirque production, each show centers on one of the 13 goddess archetypes (the featured goddess changes with the lunar phase) in a multi-sensory environment of lights, sound, and scent (www.moonrise.nyc). Alongside these Saturday night spectacles (doors around 8pm), Moonrise offers a more lounge-style “Moon Dust Cocktail Experience” on Fridays: a hybrid evening of music, short performance vignettes, and craft cocktails inspired by mythological deities. In both cases, attendees buy a package that typically includes theater-style and sofa seating as well as themed drinks. Past performances have featured the founder Lara Jacobs Rigolo herself (the “Balance Goddess”) and other international circus artists; themes and performers vary seasonally. Ticket prices range broadly depending on seating tier, generally from roughly $70 for standard spots up to $200+ for VIP or table packages (www.broadwayworld.com). (Some shows in 2022-24 sold out well in advance, so popular dates may sell quickly.) In addition to public performances, Moonrise can be rented for private events, corporate parties or corporate mixers, making use of its unique theatrical décor and multi-purpose layout.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Moonrise events are sold online through the venue’s sites (website, Linktree) and ticketing partners. There is no traditional box office on site, so plan to buy tickets in advance. Show tickets typically go on sale weeks or months before each performance – especially for Friday and Saturday nights – so check the Moonrise website or mailing list for announcements. Most tickets are e-tickets sent via email; a small per-ticket fee may apply. Pricing tiers usually include general admission seating and more expensive VIP tables or “premium” seats near the stage. Expect to pay anywhere from around $70 up to a few hundred dollars depending on your choice of table, and note that cocktail packages are often bundled (you’ll receive vouchers for included drinks). There is generally no ability to buy tickets at the door unless an event is very low on capacity. Once you have tickets, arriving early is recommended – doors often open around 7:45–8:00pm for 8pm shows, and the venue fills quickly. Check the event page for the exact start time and whether your ticket includes early access. The venue does not routinely advertise last-minute or rush sales, so the best strategy for a sold-out show is joining waitlists or following Moonrise on social media for occasional release of returned seats.
Seating and Layout
Moonrise’s interior is an open, single-floor theatre/lounge with no fixed rows of seats. Upon entering, guests find a double-height foyer leading into the main hall, which is arranged with a mix of movable chairs, sofas, and high-top tables. There is a main “stage” area where performers appear (often aerial rigs descend from the ceiling), and one or two slightly raised sections (loft or catwalk areas) acting as chill zones. In general admission plenary style, early-arriving guests can claim prime viewing spots. The front rows close to the stage are popular — and often reserved for VIP ticket-holders — while sofas and lounge seating provide a more relaxed vantage still with good sight lines. The rear portion contains the full bar and cocktail lounge; you can enjoy drinks while watching from there, though sightlines can be more restricted from the far back. Acoustics are clear courtesy of the built-in sound system (there’s even a dedicated control booth). Some visitors note keeping away from the very edges of the space if you want to see everything, since the side entrances and bar can be busy. If you’d like to chat or take photos between acts, the lounge area is more suitable than the main floor where the performance happens. In short, there are no fixed ticketed seats — seating is essentially first-come and chosen at will, with comfortable sofas and chairs dispersed so most spots have a reasonable view of the performers.
Getting There and Parking
Moonrise is located at 1329 Willoughby Avenue in Bushwick (ZIP 11237). By subway, the nearest stop is the Jefferson Street station on the L train (about 1-2 blocks north, at Jefferson/Lloyd St). Alternatively you can use the Morgan Avenue L stop (a few blocks west). Buses serving the area include the B54 (Wyckoff/Broadway), B26 (Flushing/Nostrand), and others that run along nearby Broadway or Wyckoff Ave. If driving, note that parking in Bushwick is mostly street metered; paid garages a short walk away include facilities on Cedar Street or Irving Avenue (Parkopedia lists options like 343 Himrod St and 176 Woodward Ave within a 10–15 minute walk) (en.parkopedia.com). Many guests opt for rideshares/taxis to avoid parking hassle. For rideshare drop-off, the most convenient approach is the corner of Jefferson Street and Willoughby, which has a small curb cut and is closest to the entrance. From Manhattan or Brooklyn directions, take the BQE to the Morgan Avenue/Grand Street exit, then head north on Morgan to Willoughby. Street parking is limited so if you drive, plan on walking a block or two from a metered spot or pay lot.
Inside the Venue
Expect a polished industrial atmosphere inside Moonrise. After entering through the modern glass-and-steel façade, you’ll pass a foyer into the main performance lounge. Security is typically low-key (standard ID check and bag inspection on entry). The vibe is intimate and immersive – dim lighting punctuated by theatrical spotlighting on performers, plus much of the decor is ethereal and moon-themed. There is a full bar serving craft cocktails (often with mythic or herbal themes) and non-alcoholic beverages. The menu changes seasonally but might include unusual concoctions (like “moon dust” elixirs) and small snack plates or desserts. A coat check area is usually available near the entrance, so you can stow jackets or larger bags for a small fee. Restrooms (including ADA-compliant facilities) are on site. The staff maintain a friendly but professional service; bartenders can recommend drinks based on your tastes. Note that Moonrise positions itself as an “adults-only” venue (21+) – IDs are checked at the door. Photography is usually permitted for personal memories, but courtesy is expected (flash photography might be discouraged during performances). Overall the atmosphere is theatrical and slightly loungey, with a strong emphasis on the all-in, immersive nature of the evening – it feels more like attending a private circus or interactive theater than a typical club.
Nearby Amenities
Moonrise sits in a lively dining and nightlife corridor. For pre-show dining or drinks, there are many options within a short walk. Recommended nearby restaurants include Sottocasa (a popular Neapolitan pizza spot on Willoughby & Adelphi) and Lemongrass Grill (Thai cuisine on Dekalb Ave), both about 2-3 blocks away. For a quick bite, the Downtown Brooklyn Shake Shack (just off site) or Dekalb Market Hall (food hall, 2-3 blocks away) are convenient. If you want drinks or dinner after the show, try Harriet’s Rooftop (a rooftop bar with skyline views a few blocks south) or the laid-back Clark’s Restaurant diner right on Willoughby. There are also casual bars and cafes along adjacent Jefferson and Broadway avenues. If you need to stay overnight, hotels in nearby neighborhoods like Williamsburg or East Williamsburg (or even Downtown Brooklyn) are usually closest. Anticipate arriving at least 15-30 minutes before curtain (especially on weekends) to find parking or seating and enjoy a pre-show cocktail. After the show ends (often around midnight or later), note that subway service on the L line and major buses run all night at reduced frequency. Rideshares or returning to a hotel tend to be the easiest late-night options.
What Makes This Venue Special
Moonrise stands out for its unique blend of performance art, thematic design and nightlife. Architecturally, it’s a converted 19th-century warehouse with soaring ceilings and an avant-garde interior that itself feels like part of the show. Culturally, it celebrates the tradition of “nouveau cirque” in New York – a contemporary circus style that fuses dance, theater and acrobatics. The venue’s owner, Lara Jacobs, is a Cirque du Soleil alum (“Balance Goddess” from Amaluna), which gives every act a very high level of artistry and professionalism. Under her creative direction, Moonrise has become known for its original content and attention to detail: each aspect of the evening (from custom cocktails to live music cues to interactive set pieces) reinforces the moon-goddess narrative. Local performers and VIP patrons appreciate the intimate scale (no one is more than a few feet from the stage), and the Brookyn arts community has embraced it as a fresh alternative to gritty warehouse parties. In short, Moonrise matters because it offers a fully immersive, multi-sensory experience that you can’t find at a conventional bar or theater – blending the best of nightlife and live theater into one memorable “cosmic” outing for audiences in New York. (www.timeout.com) (www.moonrise.nyc).
Visitor Tips and Information
- Age and ID: Moonrise is strictly 21+ (the lounge serves alcohol) and IDs are checked at the door. Be sure to carry a valid government ID (driver’s license or passport) for each person in your party.
- Dress Code: There is no formal dress code, but smart-casual or “night out” attire is recommended. You might see creative outfits or costume elements (many patrons get into the theme), but dressing neatly will fit the upscale lounge vibe. Comfortable shoes are wise since you may stand or move around a lot.
- Bag Policy: Large backpacks or overstuffed bags may not be allowed. Small purses or mobile-only pouches are best. A coat/bag check is typically available (for a small fee) at the entrance – especially in colder months – so plan on leaving bulky items there.
- Accessibility: The venue is on a single ground level with a wide entrance, so it is wheelchair-accessible. (The building includes ADA-compliant restrooms on site (www.loopnet.com).) If you require any special accommodations, consider calling ahead.
- Re-entry: In general, re-entry is not permitted. Once you enter and check your ticket/stamp at the door, you are not allowed to leave and come back in without obtaining new admission. (This is standard for most NYC nightlife venues.)
- Photography: Personal photography and cell-phone video of the performance are usually allowed, but flash is discouraged during acts. Use common sense and be respectful of performers and fellow guests – it’s best to stay off your phone during show segments. Professional photography or video typically requires prior permission or a press pass.
- Food and Drink: Moonrise’s bar serves creative cocktails, beer and wine. Light snacks or dessert items may be offered, but there is no full kitchen. Many guests choose to eat at a nearby restaurant before arriving. You cannot bring your own food/drink in. Tipping is expected at least 15–20% on bar tabs.
- Weather: Since the venue is fully indoors, weather only affects you getting there. Allow extra time in bad weather (snow or heavy rain can slow transit). The street entrance has a small vestibule but no large coat room beyond the check.
- Troubleshooting: If you’re running late, contact the Moonrise box office by phone (or email/tab on your ticket) – staff occasionally can hold a seat for you for a short grace period. If a show is canceled, ticket holders will typically be notified by email for rescheduling or refund.
- Behavior: A polite, creative crowd is normal. Moonrise returns the courtesy – the environment is generally safe and inclusive. Security is friendly but watchful; follow any instructions from staff. (Disorderly behavior or aggression can result in removal, as with any licensed venue.)
