New Musical 'Night Side Songs' Explores Shared Experiences of Illness

Off-Broadway production at Lincoln Center Theater's LCT3 program aims to confront isolation of cancer diagnosis through audience participation and powerful performances.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A new musical titled 'Night Side Songs', written by Daniel and Patrick Lazour, is currently premiering at Lincoln Center Theater's LCT3 program. The production centers on the story of Yasmine, played by Brooke Ishibashi, who receives a breast cancer diagnosis in her late 30s. The Lazours drew from research and interviews to portray the experience of illness as a shared human journey, rather than a solitary struggle. The show features unique audience participation elements, with attendees directed to sing along, as well as acclaimed performances from the cast including Robin de Jesus, Jonathan Raviv, Kris Saint-Louis, and Mary Testa.

Why it matters

The musical's title is inspired by a quote from Susan Sontag, highlighting how illness is often seen as the 'night side of life.' By confronting the isolation often experienced by those diagnosed with cancer, the production aims to foster a sense of communal experience and shared vulnerability around sickness and suffering.

The details

Night Side Songs is staged in the intimate Claire Tow Theater at Lincoln Center, utilizing a three-quarter thrust staging to create closeness between the audience and the story. A sculpture of ocean blue glass bottles hangs overhead, contributing to the show's atmospheric quality. The musical's melodies are described as a blend of folksy and shoegaze-pop, reminiscent of the work of Jonathan Larson and Sufjan Stevens. While the lyrics are noted as occasionally repetitive, the overall impact of the production is praised for achieving a sense of communion around the continuous cycle of care and support.

  • Night Side Songs is currently premiering at Lincoln Center Theater's LCT3 program.

The players

Daniel and Patrick Lazour

The writers of Night Side Songs, who drew upon research and interviews to inform the narrative.

Brooke Ishibashi

The actress portraying the lead role of Yasmine, who receives a breast cancer diagnosis in her late 30s.

Robin de Jesus, Jonathan Raviv, and Kris Saint-Louis

Actors who share roles as narrator, nurse, doctor, and other characters in Yasmine's life.

Mary Testa

The actress portraying Yasmine's mother.

Lincoln Center Theater's LCT3 program

The venue hosting the premiere of Night Side Songs.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“An incredible slow building wave of emotional catharsis.”

— Derek Kahle (Mezzanine app)

The takeaway

Night Side Songs aims to reframe the experience of illness as a shared human journey, rather than a solitary struggle. By incorporating audience participation and powerful performances, the production seeks to foster a sense of communal experience and shared vulnerability around sickness and suffering.