Shakespeare, but make it messy. Drunk Shakespeare turns a classic play into a seat-by-seat comedy night where one performer downs five shots and then tries to carry a major role while the rest of the troupe scrambles to stay on script. It’s staged in a hidden library speakeasy setting with a full bar and cocktail service right to where you sit.

I especially like the low-key, intimate vibe. You’re not stuck watching from a distant row like at a big Broadway house—you’re close enough to catch the timing, the facial expressions, and the little stage chaos that builds fast.

One potential downside: the humor can go a bit far—sometimes very over the top or even vulgar—so if you prefer cleaner comedy, you may want to think twice before you buy.

Key things to know before you go

• Five shots first, Shakespeare second: one actor makes it through the dangerous part before the play even really starts
• Comedy depends on the drink: the show changes depending on who’s drinking and what they ordered
• Cocktails to your seat: bar service happens during the performance, not during a break
• Intimate library setting: over 10,000 books plus a full service bar creates a fun speakeasy feel
• You may get pulled into the chaos: the show includes moments where the audience can participate
• Good sightlines: the experience is designed so you’ll likely have a clear view from your seat

What Drunk Shakespeare Feels Like in Midtown

This isn’t “Shakespeare, but slightly silly.” It’s live theatre with a controlled wrecking ball. One actor takes five shots, then attempts a major role in a Shakespeare play, and the rest of the cast has to keep the performance moving while things go off the rails. The result is comedy that lives in the mistakes: forgotten lines, interrupted moments, improv detours, and quick resets back toward the script.

What makes it work for me is the balance. You’re watching professional actors doing real stage work—even when the premise is chaotic. And because the show outcome depends on who’s drinking and what they ordered, you don’t feel like you’re watching the same exact bits every time you see it.

The setting also changes the tone. In a normal theatre, the audience is a spectator. Here, the room and the performance style are friendly to heckling energy and playful audience involvement—without turning it into a random street show.

Entering The Ruby Theatre Library Speakeasy

Your night starts at The Ruby Theatre on W 39th Street, near Bryant Park. The key detail is that this show doesn’t feel like a giant venue production. It’s set in a hidden-style space built around an intimate library theme, with 10,000+ books and a full service bar.

That “library speakeasy” design matters more than you’d think. It helps keep the room warm and conversational, so the comedy lands faster. When actors need to pivot quickly—because someone’s trying to hit a line while clearly not at peak Shakespeare performance—the audience feels like part of the momentum.

The full bar is also part of the ambiance. You’re not being herded away for drinks; you’re in the same room with the same performers, and the bar is woven into the night. That makes it feel like a proper event, not just a ticketed show you attend and then leave.

The 90-Minute Flow: Shots, Roles, and On-the-Fly Chaos

The show is designed to run about 90 minutes, and it follows a simple engine: a drunken attempt at serious theatre. The premise is that members of The Drunk Shakespeare Society stage a Shakespeare performance, but one member has to play through after taking five shots. The four sober actors then work like a living script supervisor system—trying to keep the story and cues on track.

So what does it feel like moment to moment?

• You’ll get the rhythm of a play build-up: characters, staging, and lines.
• Then you’ll watch the play wobble when the shot-taking performer hits a spot where the role requires precision.
• The sober actors have to decide fast: cover, correct, improv, or redirect.

Because each show can be different depending on the drinking situation, you’re not just watching a pre-written comedy routine. You’re watching theatre adapt in real time. That’s why it can feel hilarious and tense at the same time—like watching a friend try a difficult speech after a dare.

One more detail that’s easy to miss in the description: there’s audience decision-making during the night, including a chance to become king and queen for the evening. That’s a fun way to turn “watching” into “participating” without needing to be a performer yourself.

Cocktails Delivered During the Performance

Yes, you’ll order drinks, and yes, they come to your seat. The show includes cocktail service, with craft cocktails delivered while the theatre action keeps going. Drinks themselves are not included in the ticket price, but the experience is built around the idea that the bar is part of the performance.

The drinks matter because they connect to the premise: the show varies depending on who’s drinking and what’s being served. So even though you’re the audience, your bar choices help shape the night’s energy in a subtle way—especially if the show involves audience participation or if cast members take cues from what’s happening around them.

From the practical side: expect the room to be active during the show. Staff are moving, drinks are arriving, and the whole thing runs like a single event. If you’re planning a big meal beforehand, I’d keep it light. You’ll enjoy the laughs more when you’re not trying to settle your stomach while Shakespeare gets derailed.

Comedy Style: When It Hits Hard (and When It Doesn’t)

This is the part to be honest about. The show is a comedy built on alcohol-fueled performance slip-ups, and that can tip into language or jokes that don’t land for everyone. One review I saw put it bluntly: the acting can feel over the top, and the humour can lean vulgar, even if the same person enjoys other edgy live entertainment types.

I think that’s the most important consideration for your decision. If you’re the kind of person who loves improv energy and doesn’t mind a little roughness, you’ll probably have a great time. If you prefer stand-up that stays clean and controlled, this show could feel like it’s pushing past your comfort zone.

At the same time, the overall reviews score is strong, and the praise is consistent: strong acting, an excellent atmosphere, and a fun vibe. A few notes that came up repeatedly were that the performances are well delivered, the room has great energy, and the drinks are genuinely tasty—not just watered-down show props.

So here’s my “friend check” advice: if you’re curious and you can handle a chaotic sense of humour, go for it. If you’re risk-averse about vulgarity, consider picking a different type of comedy night.

Price vs Value: Is $49 Worth It?

At $49 per person for a 90-minute live show, you’re paying for three things at once:

1. professional actors doing Shakespeare with a comedy twist
2. a distinctive speakeasy library setting (over 10,000 books plus a full bar)
3. cocktail service that happens during the show

Drinks are not included, so your final spend depends on what you order. But the value isn’t only in the base ticket—it’s in what you’re buying: a full evening experience, not just a theatre performance.

Compared to a standard comedy show plus a separate bar stop, this ticket bundles everything into one coordinated night. You’ll get a built-in excuse to stay in one place, watch the action, laugh, and drink at the same time—without the awkward pause where you wander around searching for a drink or a restroom.

If you’re looking for a “special night” in Midtown that doesn’t feel like another museum line or another generic dinner, this one is designed for fun first.

Seating and Atmosphere: How to Choose Your Night

Even though the description doesn’t spell out seat tiers, one review specifically noted that all seats have good views. That’s a huge plus for a performance like this, where the comedy can come from quick facial reactions or from the cast trying to recover.

Because it’s intimate, treat it like a close-up show. Arrive with the mindset that you’re part of the room, not far away from the action. If you want the most laughs, sit where you can see both the shot-taking performer and the sober actors who are trying to keep the script alive.

Also, since drinks are delivered right to your seat, you don’t need to plan your own bathroom breaks or bar runs around every scene. The room runs on the show schedule.

If you’re celebrating something, this is one of those nights that feels celebratory by default. The “king and queen” moment gives you a reason to be in on the fun, even if you’re not the type to jump into chaos all the time.

Who This Fits Best (and Who Should Skip It)

This experience is best for adults who want lively humour, fast-moving theatre energy, and the speakeasy vibe of a library bar. It’s also a strong pick for groups—especially friends who like to laugh and don’t take Shakespeare too seriously.

You should be extra sure you’re the right match if:

• you can handle jokes that may lean crude or vulgar
• you enjoy participation moments and don’t hate being pulled into group energy
• you’re 21 or older (the show is not suitable for people under 21)

If you dislike alcohol-themed comedy, or you want a clean, low-chaos theatre night, you may find this style misses the mark. One person’s experience didn’t “catch” for that reason, and they described the acting style as too exaggerated.

Practical Tips to Make the Night Go Smooth

Here’s how I’d set yourself up for the best odds.

• Go in knowing it’s theatre plus drinking energy. Don’t expect Shakespeare accuracy; expect Shakespeare as a platform for comedy.
• If you’re not a heavy drinker, you can still enjoy the show. Drinks are available from the bar menu, but the ticket is just entry.
• Keep expectations flexible. Since each show depends on who’s drinking and what, you’ll get different levels of chaos.
• Arrive early enough to settle in. The venue is intimate, and you’ll want a moment to grab your place before the first big moment.

Finally, if you’re the type who gets anxious in loud group settings, this one might feel intense—but in a good way for many people. It’s a social room built for laughter.

Should You Book Drunk Shakespeare at The Ruby Theatre?

Book it if you want a fun, slightly unhinged NYC night that mixes professional acting, a quirky library speakeasy setting, and cocktail service that keeps you in the action. The $49 ticket feels like good value when you want a full evening experience, not just a quick show.

Skip it if clean humour matters most to you, or if you’d be uncomfortable with performances that can be over the top and sometimes vulgar. This is comedy built on alcohol-fueled stage chaos, so it won’t be everyone’s cup of tea.

FAQ

How long is the Drunk Shakespeare show?

The experience runs for about 90 minutes.

Where is the meeting point?

You meet at The Ruby Theatre on W 39th Street, near Bryant Park.

What is the price per person?

The price is listed as $49 per person.

Are drinks included in the ticket price?

No. Drinks are not included. You can select from the bar menu, and prices vary per drink.

Do they deliver cocktails to your seat?

Yes. Craft cocktails are delivered right to your seat during the performance.

Is there a minimum age requirement?

Yes. The show is not suitable for people under 21.

Is outside alcohol allowed?

Alcohol and drugs are not allowed. You can order drinks from the bar menu, but you can’t bring your own.

What language is the host or greeter?

The host or greeter is English, and the experience is in English.

Is the venue wheelchair accessible?

Yes. The venue is wheelchair accessible.

Can I cancel and get a refund?

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.