Immersive Theater Heads to the Sauna as DEATH OF RASPUTIN Dazzles NYC Again

by

Okay, you guys, you are not going to believe this one. Immersive theater… in a sauna? Only in New York City, right? But it’s not just any show – it’s “Death of Rasputin,” and honestly, I was skeptical. But this production consistently blows me away. They’ve done everything from staging full shows on islands to pop-up performances, and even turning scenes into full-on Slavic parties. They get it. And this latest version, held at the Othership bathhouse, is easily one of my favorites. It sounds bizarre on paper, I admit. But being inside the experience, surrounded by steam and heat? It’s unbelievably immersive. Artemis is Burning has taken this already mesmerizing story and made it even more sultry, chilling, and completely consuming by brilliantly utilizing the unique environment. Seriously, this is a must-see if you’re looking for something truly different.

Let me share what the immersive theater group Death of Rasputin says about their experience at the Othership sauna and ice bath. They describe it as stepping into a shadowy, candlelit world reminiscent of a traditional Russian banya (bathhouse), where the spirit of Grigori Rasputin lives on. Attendees are invited to an evening of ritual, purification, and intense experience, where Rasputin and his followers will challenge, cleanse, and transform them. The performance promises a seductive and magical encounter with this infamous historical figure.

Okay, so I just saw this incredible immersive theater piece in NYC called Death of Rasputin, and wow. It completely throws you back to the final days of the Romanovs in Russia. It’s a really fantastical take on the story of Rasputin and all the people around the royal family – some real, some imagined. What’s cool is, depending on the show, you can follow the story from different perspectives – like Rasputin himself, the nobility, or even the revolutionaries. The version I saw was done in this really intimate setting – almost like a sauna – and they streamlined the characters, with just a few actors playing whole groups. Honestly, it didn’t lose anything though. If anything, it made the story even more captivating and drew you right in.

Thinking back to how Death of Rasputin describes its sauna experience, the words used to capture it all sound incredible—almost too good to be true. But I assure you, it’s all real. From the moment you enter the sauna to begin this Death of Rasputin adventure, you’re immediately drawn into a ritual, attempting to summon Rasputin from the afterlife. Something definitely changes. It could be the unusual setting of a theatrical performance while wearing a swimsuit, the way the sauna transforms into a crowded amphitheater, or the sudden rush of heat and your racing heartbeat as you become part of the story. It’s likely a combination of all these elements, culminating in the actors’ captivating performance that truly brings it to life, allowing you to breathe with everyone around you.

Despite the unusual setting, Death of Rasputin delivers a fully immersive theatrical experience within a functioning sauna. The performance unfolds across three distinct areas of the sauna, each offering unique interactive elements. Unlike traditional shows, you won’t see everything in a single viewing. Instead, the audience gets to choose which characters to follow, which storylines to explore, and how to experience the show. You can stick with one character throughout, switch between narratives, or simply roam and discover. What’s truly remarkable is that the show doesn’t change the sauna space; it transforms it. Ice baths become baptismal pools, showers become blessings, and the sauna’s steam takes on a mystical quality. Even the spa’s usual calming music and lights are repurposed to create the atmosphere for mysterious rituals. The speed and effectiveness of this transformation are astonishing, completely drawing you into the world of the play.

The experience of Death of Rasputin in the Othership sauna perfectly captures what I think of as truly immersive theater. It’s that feeling of chills, of being deeply affected by the atmosphere – the unique scents, the physical sensation of change – and a sense that everything around you has shifted. It’s the moment when someone like Grigori Rasputin might reach out and tell you he dreamed of you, and how amazing it is that you’ve both ended up there together. And in that moment, it’s absolutely magical.

Even if you’ve seen Death of Rasputin before, this sauna performance offers a lot of fresh material and a different feel. The story is noticeably more atmospheric and mysterious, with the characters appearing more intense and complex. This version really emphasizes the ritualistic and magical elements of the world, and it’s honestly one of my favorites. I particularly enjoy how the show creates a fairytale-like experience within a fully immersive setting – something you just can’t get in everyday life. This sauna production delivers that feeling spectacularly. While some scenes are familiar, there’s plenty of new content to keep you engaged and provide deeper understanding of the characters.

Despite a somewhat darker mood, the show Death of Rasputin at Othership is still filled with a wonderful, strong sense of love and connection. It cleverly blends performance with wellness practices like breathing exercises, meditation, and self-reflection, mirroring the atmosphere of a sauna. Standout moments include a priest encouraging confession and forgiveness, and a powerful scene with a witch-like character leading the audience through chants focused on emotional awareness. These elements are woven into the story so naturally that they never feel forced or awkward. Beneath the show’s sensuality and darkness, there’s a hopeful message about finding connection and accepting yourself.

I’ve mentioned it before, and it’s worth repeating: Death of Rasputin truly exemplifies what immersive theater can be. The performance fostered intimate connections – a shared glance, a gentle touch, a whispered word – and welcomed those who wanted to become even more involved. The unique venue drew a diverse audience, including dedicated fans, members of the Othership spa, and curious newcomers. Afterwards, everyone was invited to connect and discuss the experience over time in the sauna, creating a vibrant and unexpected community. And that, ultimately, is what made it so special.

The performance Death of Rasputin will return to the Othership sauna on January 20th and 26th. Tickets are on sale now! The show lasts about an hour, and attendees can enjoy another hour at the sauna afterward. Featuring Ginger Kearns as Katya, Zina Zinchenko as the Tsarina, Jake Ryan Lozano as Rasputin, Louis Butelli as Iliodor, and Andrea Murillo as Lokhtina, this is a captivating show delivered in a unique and memorable setting.

In short, don’t miss out on immersive theater in the sauna. You’ll be sorry if you do.

Read More

2026-01-15 21:34