MASS is Bernstein's wildest work — a Catholic mass exploded into Broadway, rock, blues and twelve-tone music with a cast of hundreds — and Dudamel is its greatest living champion. The Phil almost never mounts it; this is a once-a-decade New York event. It is also the season finale, so expect the orchestra at full emotional stretch.
What to expect
A roughly two-hour theatrical work performed without intermission, with a Celebrant, choirs, children's chorus, dancers and amplified band alongside the orchestra.
Good to know
- Four performances only — the Phil's season finale
- David Geffen Hall — 1 train to 66th St
- Typically performed without intermission — plan accordingly
- Cast, Celebrant and staging details on nyphil.org
- Tribeca Festival and Museum Mile fall the same week — plan transit
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Common questions
Is it a religious service?
No — it is a theatre piece that uses the structure of the mass to explore faith and doubt.
How many performers?
Bernstein's score calls for well over 200 — orchestra, choirs, rock and blues bands, marching band and dancers.
