Epstein Theatre to premiere new staged production of MASQUERADE this Autumn

A brand new production of Masquerade – a play telling a powerful and emotional tale set in an iconic Liverpool gay club in the 1980s – will play at the city’s Epstein Theatre from 22-26 November.

Masquerade is a poignant tale of love and loss among Liverpool’s LGBT+ community. 

Following a successful run at the Royal Court Studio in 2019, the acclaimed play written by Laura Lees is back in a new electrifying and reimagined staging, with Liverpool’s queer history at its heart. The creative team has been announced and the full cast will be revealed shortly. 

Directed by James Baker, the new production is designed by Ellie Light, with sound by Daniel Mawson and casting by Pearson Casting. 

The play tells a fictional story based around the now demolished iconic Cases Street venue, affectionately known as The Mazzie, which was frequented at the time by famous faces including Holly Johnson, Paul O’Grady, Paul Rutherford, and Margi Clarke. 

Masquerade – where inside was the place to be out. Mike loves Tony (but not like that). He’s his best mate. To be confident, outgoing, and open is a big deal in a city like Liverpool in 1986 especially during the Aids crisis. When they discover The Masquerade Club with trepidation, Mike gets a taste of the life he could and should be living. He is welcomed with open arms, soon becoming the resident DJ in a club that becomes the centre of his universe. But their paths go in separate directions. Outside of the club walls he needs to find the courage to tell his parents that he is not the son they want him to be. Will he find the strength to stand up for himself especially when tragedy strikes?

Director James Baker said: “I'm really excited to be directing a new incarnation of this play, which has its DNA firmly rooted in the queer history of Liverpool and the iconic Masquerade. The play will be a feast for the heart and celebrate the very nature of what it means to be free from oppression and live your own truth. Get ready to experience a night out like no other!” 

For more information and to book tickets, please click here.