Michael R. Jackson writes theater songs that argue with themselves mid-verse, and Wake Up Call catches him at the piano-side end of that process instead of behind a full production. The set threads catalogue material through first-draft songs from Subscribers, his musical in progress, in a room small enough that every lyric lands. If you like watching a writer test material before it hardens into a show, this is exactly that format.
What to expect
Joe's Pub is a cabaret room with table seating, bar stools and a per-person minimum separate from your ticket. Sets run roughly 75 minutes, and Jackson typically frames songs with commentary about how and why he wrote them. Table seats are assigned by reservation order, so booking early changes where you end up sitting.
Good to know
- Joe's Pub is inside The Public Theater at Astor Place; take the 6 to Astor Place or the R or W to 8th Street
- There is a two-drink or one-food-item minimum per person, charged separately from admission
- Table seating is assigned by reservation order — reserve early if you want a seat rather than a rail spot
- The room is small, so late arrivals can end up standing at the bar
- Accessible entry and seating are available through The Public's Lafayette Street lobby
- Expect frank adult language, in keeping with his songwriting
Get Saturday planned every Thursday
One email a week — the best of the NYC weekend board. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.
Common questions
Do I need to know A Strange Loop first?
No. The evening works as a standalone concert of his songwriting, though people who know the show will hear how his voice carries into the new material.
What is Subscribers?
It is the new musical Jackson is currently writing. Songs from it are previewed here as works in progress, which means they may change or disappear before any full production.
Is there a minimum charge?
Yes. Joe's Pub requires two drinks or one food item per person during every show, in addition to the ticket.
More this weekend
