Get ready to stake your claim on a night of unforgettable nostalgia, because one of television's most audacious musical episodes is leaping off the screen and onto the New York stage. Yes, you heard that right—the legendary 2001 episode of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, "Once More, With Feeling," is getting not one, but two live concert performances at The Rat NYC in Brooklyn on November 19 and December 9. But here's where it gets controversial: while some fans argue it's a masterpiece, others claim it’s a quirky relic of early 2000s TV. Love it or hate it, you can’t deny its impact.
For those who’ve never experienced this cult classic, let’s break it down. Imagine a demon descends on Sunnydale, forcing everyone to sing and dance their deepest secrets. Sounds bizarre? It is—but in the best way. The episode is a wild blend of Broadway-level musical numbers, monster-of-the-week thrills, and gut-wrenching character moments. It’s no wonder it became an instant fan favorite and inspired countless other shows to attempt their own musical episodes (though few have matched its boldness).
Produced by Something to Sing About Productions, this concert promises to bring the magic of the episode to life. Under the direction of LaRena Iocco and music director Billy Blair, fans will relive iconic moments like Buffy’s heart-wrenching solo "Something to Sing About" and Spike’s cheeky "Rest in Peace." And let’s not forget fan favorites like "I’ll Never Tell" and "Walk Through the Fire."
The cast, including Andrea Janine Bernardo, Emily Enden, and Myles McHale, will step into the shoes of Sarah Michelle Gellar, James Marsters, and the rest of the iconic ensemble. But this isn’t just a rehash—it’s a celebration of an episode that dared to be different. After the show, stick around for a round of Buffy trivia, where you can flex your fandom and maybe even win some swag.
And this is the part most people miss: "Once More, With Feeling" wasn’t just a gimmick. It was a groundbreaking blend of humor, heartbreak, and theatricality that elevated TV to a new level. It’s been screened in theaters, belted out in karaoke bars, and endlessly quoted online. Two decades later, its influence is still felt in shows like Scrubs and Riverdale.
So, is this just a nostalgia trip, or is there something more? Does revisiting this episode in 2023 feel like a time capsule, or does it still hold up as a bold artistic statement? Let us know in the comments—we’re dying to hear your take. For tickets, click here for November 19 or here for December 9. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this slay-worthy event!
Oh, and one last thing—if you’re already a Buffy veteran, think this is old news? Think again. Sign up for our newsletter to discover more hidden gems in New York, whether you’re on a budget or ready to splurge. By entering your email, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive updates from Time Out. 🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed! Look out for your first newsletter soon!
