About MoonRise: A Nouveau Circus Immersive Performance
MoonRise is an immersive performance art space and cocktail lounge in Bushwick, Brooklyn, built around an astrological theme. It’s the brainchild of Swiss circus artist Lara Jacobs Rigolo (a former Cirque du Soleil performer) and Rigolo Swiss Nouveau Cirque. The venue is a converted warehouse at 1329 Willoughby Ave, with high ceilings and a modern industrial style. Instead of a traditional stage, the audience moves through an atmospheric set designed like a temple to the moon, complete with scenic drapery, macramé art, and a full bar. Each show honors one of the 13 mythological moon goddesses, changing with the lunar cycle. This rotating theme makes every performance unique. MoonRise stands out in New York’s scene for blending dance, theatre, acrobatics and art into one multi-sensory “nouveau circus” ritual, and it has quickly become a distinctive part of Brooklyn nightlife.
Events and Programming
MoonRise hosts special shows on select nights (often weekend evenings) rather than daily performances. In the spring and summer of 2022, for example, MoonRise ran weekly Saturday shows from May through December. Each event follows the current full moon’s theme. Guests begin in an entry ritual where they discover their personal moon goddess (based on birth date) and receive an aromatherapy necklace. After a scented prelude with herbal oils, they enter the main lounge for the performance. The show itself features high-level circus acts – aerial silks, hoop, juggling, contortion and a signature balance act – interwoven with music and storytelling about the goddess of the month. Famous exotic acts like a single-feather balancing sculpture (once a Cirque du Soleil highlight) often appear. Between acts, performers may mingle with the crowd or the bar serves craft cocktails themed to that goddess’s mythology (for example, drinks infused with herbs like turmeric or rosemary). After the finale, the room transforms into an after-party where patrons can celebrate “their moon birthday.”
Typical ticket prices have ranged from about $60 and up, with premium packages costing more for front-row seats, private tables, or bottle service. Early shows (such as 7pm) or matinees may be slightly cheaper. Because events sell out, dates can fill quickly, especially around major moon events or holidays. Special experiences like VIP access (with perks like extra lounge time or cocktails) are occasionally offered. The burlesque-circus style makes the atmosphere part supper-club, part theater, attracting audiences who enjoy both the show and socializing. While the programming has mostly run in 2022 and into 2023 under MoonRise’s banner, the creators also collaborate on similar immersive dinners elsewhere (e.g. the Paradise Club dinner series). MoonRise has operated on a ticketed, reservation-only basis – there is no general drop-in schedule.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets to MoonRise shows are sold in advance online. The official MoonRise website or affiliated event platforms (such as Fever or Eventbrite) list upcoming dates and ticket options. There is no physical box office on site, so tickets must be purchased ahead of time. Shows often appear weeks or months in advance, with new dates announced around each lunar month. Popular performance dates (especially summer weekends or astrological events) may require booking early. Standard tickets cover entry to the immersive experience and show. Premium tickets or VIP tables may carry higher prices and can include reserved seating at the center of the action or extra benefits like a private drink or gift.
Ticket prices typically start around $60 for a general admission seat and can go up to over $100 for upgraded packages or special experiences (such as a cocktail package or meet-and-greet). The website usually details any tiered pricing. Sometimes promotions or group discounts are offered, and joining a mailing list might provide early access. All tickets are digital; print or mobile e-tickets are required for entry. In most cases, tickets are non-refundable, but organizers may allow rescheduling or exchanges if requested in advance. There is rarely any day-of or door ticket sales, as they sell out in advance. It’s advisable to follow MoonRise on social media or sign up for alerts so you know when new shows go on sale.
Seating and Layout
The seating at MoonRise is unconventional. Instead of rows of chairs, the space is laid out like a lounge-theater hybrid. A central performance area takes up most of the floor, often surrounded by low cushions, benches and scattered lounge seating. Early-arriving guests often sit on plush floor cushions placed close to the central stage for an intimate view. Around the perimeter and on the mezzanine, there are couches and bar stools where people can relax while watching. Because it’s immersive, many audience members move around freely: some may stand at the bar, some may sit on pillows by the stage, and others watch from slightly raised areas. There is also an upstairs loft or “green room” level that can hold extra seating or a small VIP table.
Best viewing spots depend on your preference. Front-and-center floor cushions give a very close-up view of aerial and balancing acts, but you may be level with the performers. Sitting back on a couch or stand at the side allows seeing the entire stage at once, though it’s farther away. The mezzanine provides a bird’s-eye angle (though fewer performances focus upwards). There is general admission seating; no formal assigned seats. If you have a premium ticket, a specific area (like a reserved cushion or couch) may be marked. Keep in mind sound and lighting: the venue’s built-in sound system and lighting rig are designed for the space. Some corner spots near the walls may have acoustics slightly lower or lights more diffused. In general, anywhere in the main hall offers a complete experience, so it’s worth moving around a bit during show transitions. Avoid blocking the aisle or fire exits.
Getting There and Parking
MoonRise is located at 1329 Willoughby Avenue in Bushwick, Brooklyn (address again for reference). Public transportation is the easiest way to reach it. The nearest subway station is Jefferson Street on the L line – just one short block north of Wyckoff Avenue, then a left on Willoughby. You can also exit at the Halsey Street stop (J/Z trains) and walk a few blocks west on Halsey and then north on Willoughby. Several bus lines run nearby (for example, the B38 on Wyckoff or the B54 on Myrtle/Wyckoff). Taxis, Ubers and Lyfts can drop you off right at the corner of Willoughby and Jefferson (look for the large steel and glass facade). In print directions, the venue is just west of Bushwick’s Jefferson–Wyckoff intersection, placing it in a dense cluster of galleries and nightlife venues.
Parking in Bushwick is limited. Street parking is metered in daylight hours and scarce in the evening. If you drive, arriving well before showtime is advisable. A couple of nearby parking lots can be used: one at 100 Wyckoff Avenue (a small garage), or the larger Wyckoff lot at 343 Himrod Street – each charging typical $3–8 per hour rates. Overnight parking on local streets may incur restrictions. Rideshare drop-off is common: many guests exit cars on Willoughby Ave right at the venue entrance. Note that after 2am both the L train and J/Z lines still run (the NYC subway is 24/7), so late-night transit is available. If driving, allow extra travel time because Bushwick traffic and late-night crowds (especially on weekends) can cause delays. Walking from nearby Manhattan requires boarding the L train at 14th Street/6th Avenue or 8th Avenue in Manhattan, then exiting at Jefferson. If coming from Manhattan even late at night, the L train is reliable late into the night/hour. For airport travel, the closest major transfers are to the L line; from LGA you might take the Q70 bus to Jackson Heights and switch, or from JFK take the A to Broadway Junction.
Inside the Venue
Expect MoonRise’s interior to be theatrical and sensory. Entering through the glass front, guests first go through a small lobby and check-in desk (tickets scanned at the door). Ushers guide you into the antechamber. After any bag check or metal detector screening (if in place), you’ll start your immersive experience. The staff is costumed and friendly. On entry, you may fill out a quick form or use an app to find your moon goddess if required. There are no assigned seats so you can choose floor cushions, sofas, or standing spots. The main lounge is dimly lit with colored spotlights, incense smoke, and draped decorations – it feels more like a lounge nightclub or mystical temple than a typical theater. The overall vibe is creative and bohemian.
MoonRise has a full-service bar with custom craft cocktails. These drinks are not included in the ticket price and cost extra (around $14–18 each), so be prepared to buy beverages at the bar. The bartenders mix ornate drinks using exotic ingredients (e.g. rosemary, elderflower, turmeric) that tie into the moon theme. There is usually a menu of themed drinks, and alcohol consumption is expected since this is a 21+ venue. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, there are artisanal sodas or infused mocktails (confirm availability in advance). Light snacks or small bites may be offered at some shows, but don’t count on a full dinner – plan to eat before if you want a meal.
Other amenities include restrooms (including at least two wheelchair-accessible “ADA” restrooms upstairs) that are clearly marked. There may be a coat check service for a small fee, given the chilly New York winters – check at the coat rack by the entrance. A merchandise table or display often offers small items (like branded T-shirts, pins, or perfume samples linked to the goddesses). Look for signage or ask staff if you have questions. Mobile phone use is typically discouraged during performances (no flash photography during acts), so lockers or phone pockets may be provided. Wi-Fi is usually limited or unsecured; the event is meant to be fully in the moment. The audience atmosphere is generally relaxed and friendly; people often mingle during breaks. Security patrols the venue to ensure rules are followed (no smoking inside, etc.). The environment is inclusive and art-focused: costumes and creative attire are welcome at this event.
Nearby Amenities
Around MoonRise there are plenty of options for dining, drinking, and lodging. For pre-show meals, consider the many Bushwick eateries: pizza joints on Wyckoff Ave, vegan cafes on nearby Flushing Ave, or Mexican food around the corner. Popular options include Roberta’s Pizza (in a short walk), Kettle Black coffee shop (also on Wyckoff), and Anita’s Empanadas (a block away on St. Nicholas). If you want a proper sit-down dinner, try House of Yes’s cafe space (near Wyckoff & Bogart) or Lorah’s Bistro on Bogart St. After the show, late-night bites include local favorites like Crescendo (burgers and music) or the street carts on nearby streets. Late-night bars abound: RA-RA Rhino (a laid-back bar on Wyckoff) and The Red Pavilion on Graham Ave are within easy walking distance for a drink past midnight.
As for hotels, Bushwick itself has a few budget options, but most travelers stay in nearby neighborhoods. Many guests book places in Williamsburg or downtown Brooklyn (just 10–15 minutes away by taxi or 1–2 L stops). Williamsburg’s Wythe Hotel or even cheaper Airbnb lofts in East Williamsburg can be practical. There is a Marriott and boutique hotels near the Brooklyn Academy of Music about 20 minutes away. If you prefer Manhattan, Midtown or the Lower East Side are reachable via subway in under 30 minutes. Walking to the venue from a subway should take only 5 minutes from Jefferson L or Halsey J/Z, so staying near those lines anywhere is convenient.
Plan to arrive an hour before if possible. That way you can check in, get your cocktail order in, and experience the full pre-show ritual at a relaxed pace. Many local fans recommend coming early to soak in the mood. Leave plenty of time to navigate the area: Bushwick has art galleries and murals to explore en route, but it’s wise to give yourself 15 extra minutes as the last block is industrial. By 90 minutes into the evening (well after show start), crowds thin as some head home or continue the party in nearby bars. Taxis and ride-shares often queue up on Willoughby near the venue after shows end, but the subway (L and J/Z lines) also runs 24/7, so there’s reliable late transport.
What Makes This Venue Special
MoonRise is not just another performance hall; it’s a “gypsy luxe” experience that blends theater, circus and nightlife in a way few places do. Architecturally, the space feels like a modernized temple: a high-ceiling warehouse with dramatic drapes, hanging gardens of herbs, and mood lighting that can change color in sync with the performance. The central steel-framed stage and glass façade give it a sleek look, but inside it’s richly decorated – walnuts, purples and golds – to set an otherworldly mood. This design was fully custom-built by the creators and their team of set designers, turning an empty loft into a multi-room ritual site with a bar, scent room, performance hall, and open mezzanine. The industrial concrete and steel of Bushwick serve as a dramatic backdrop to the lush interior decor.
Historically, MoonRise draws from the Rigolo family’s circuses and a 1990 production they created in Switzerland. Lara Rigolo has brought those roots to NYC: she was the Balance Goddess (with the famous sand-dorn act) in Cirque du Soleil’s Amaluna tour, and here she presents her own reinterpretation. This connection adds authenticity – audiences see world-class circus talent directed by someone from that legacy. Local media calls MoonRise a “dreamy astrological nouveau circus” (secretnyc.co), and word-of-mouth praises its intimate vibe. It’s become a niche New York legend: a place where attending is as much about being part of a moon ritual as it is about watching performers.
Culturally, MoonRise fits right into Bushwick’s avant-garde nightlife. It shares the block with experimental venues (Elsewhere music hall, House of Yes, art galleries), so it has helped put this part of Brooklyn even more on the creative map. By combining drinking and high art, it draws a crowd that might not usually see live circus, bridging theater fans with cocktail enthusiasts. It also employs local artists, designers and bartenders, adding to the neighborhood economy. Even though relatively new (opening around 2021–2022), MoonRise has already hosted photo shoots, group bookings and special event nights, making it more than just a show venue – it’s a community space that blends performance and party. As such, it’s earned a cult following: artists love performing there for the freedom and sensory tools, audiences love the inclusiveness and spectacle. It embodies the creative spirit that Bushwick is famous for, offering a novel fusion of European circus tradition with Brooklyn’s DIY nightlife scene.
Visitor Tips and Information
MoonRise is a 21+ venue (ID check at the door), so plan accordingly. The dress code is eclectic and creative – many people wear bohemian or cosmic attire (flowy skirts, spacey prints, masks or makeup inspired by zodiac signs). Formal wear isn’t required; think “festival chic” rather than business or gym clothes. You’ll likely be sitting on cushions or standing, so light layers are good if you get warm during active parts, but a light jacket is handy for cool-down periods. Comfortable shoes are a plus, since you may walk around or climb to the loft. Overdressed is fine (it’s part of the fun), and themed costumes are often encouraged. It’s wise to leave bulky bags or backpacks at home; security typically doesn’t allow large items, and coat check (if available) charges a few dollars.
Photography and video-taking are generally prohibited during performances (to not intrude on the art or other guests). Some people discreetly take a few snapshots of the set or their cocktails at the bar, but shine a phone flash in the middle of an act is a breach of etiquette. Expect announcements about this rule. Keep your phone on silent; the shows have live music and narrative, so distractions are discouraged. Earplugs are available if you’re sensitive to loud sounds (the sound room segments can be rumbly and some acts use amplified music). There may be moments of strobe or flashing lights during aerial sequences, so those with light sensitivity should be aware. No smoking inside anywhere. The bathrooms are gender-neutral and kept clean. Tip the bartenders and performers if you enjoy the service – it’s a friendly community spot for creatives and they appreciate it.
Arrive at least 15–30 minutes before showtime. This gives you a chance to check jackets, order a drink, and find your seating area. The experience is timed to start promptly (there may be an intro ritual you don’t want to miss by being late). If you’re running late, contact the venue in advance: re-entry is usually not allowed after a certain point. During COVID times (if policies still apply), masks might be required; check updates before you go. Otherwise, just show up with your ticket (printed or digital), valid photo ID, and an open mind. The best advice is to participate—dance if moved, laugh, and let the show unfold around you. Many visitors say the surprise elements (like unexpected aromas or performers popping up at the bar) are part of the magic, so stay engaged. Keep an eye on your drink and surroundings as you would at any nightlife spot. Finally, be respectful of the performers (they get very close) – don’t invade their space unless invited. Follow any instructions from staff about barricades or safety ropes around aerial rigging.
