New York City’s summer arts scene is heating up, and the star of the show this season is The Counterfeit Opera at Little Island. This fresh, cheeky musical, which kicked off on May 29, 2025, is a rollicking reimagining of the legendary satire The Beggar’s Opera—only this time, it’s set in the grimy, glittering streets of 1850s Manhattan.

What’s It All About?

The Counterfeit Opera centers on the antihero Macheath, a rogue and robber, and his gang of grifters, hustlers, and working women who are too smart to fail but too poor to win. The show trades in charm, mystery, and steamy romance, all while poking fun at corruption and the powers that be—just like its inspiration, which has been roasting politicians for centuries.

A Little Bit of Everything

This isn’t just another opera—it’s a “fake opera,” as the creators cheekily put it. The story follows a group of modern-day thieves who use treasures stolen from the Metropolitan Opera to stage their own show. “The thieves are referring to it as an opera,” says director Dustin Wills. “They likely don’t frequent the opera very much.” The result is a madcap caper that’s part heist, part love story, and all fun.

The Vibe

If you’re looking for a night that’s equal parts theater and party, this is it. Each performance runs about 90 minutes, and after the curtain falls, you can stick around for a nightcap at The Play Ground, Little Island’s open-air plaza. With local wine, beer, cocktails, and snacks—plus killer skyline views—it’s the perfect way to cap off a summer evening in the city.

Why You Should Go

Tickets start at just $10 for standing rail spots and $25 for regular seats, making this one of the most accessible and entertaining shows in town. Whether you’re a theater buff, a history nerd, or just looking for a good time, The Counterfeit Opera is a must-see. It’s running through June 15 at The Amph at Little Island, Pier 55, right on the Hudson River.

So grab your friends, snag a ticket, and get ready for a night of wit, music, and mischief—New York style.