The renowned Under the Radar (UTR) festival is once again captivating New York City with its 20th annual lineup of avant-garde and thought-provoking performances. Among the highlights is "Night Side Songs," an interactive musical created by the Lazour siblings. This developmental piece invites audiences to participate in refining the work, offering a unique opportunity to shape the final production. Directed by Tabi Magar and performed at Lincoln Center’s Clark Studio Theatre, the show blends historical elements with contemporary narratives, exploring themes of illness and community through communal singing. Following its UTR run, "Night Side Songs" will travel to Philadelphia and Boston for full productions. The cast includes Broadway veterans Mary Testa, Taylor Trensch, Jordan Dobson, Brooke Ishibashi, and Jonathan Ravivi.

Inspired by a book on early chemotherapy trials, "Night Side Songs" evolved from an initial concept about pioneering cancer treatments to a more inclusive narrative involving patients, caregivers, and medical professionals. The Lazours' personal experiences with illness in their family further influenced the direction of the piece. They aimed to create a communal experience that encourages audience participation without making anyone feel pressured or uncomfortable. The show's development process involved extensive workshops where the creators tested various elements, including simple folk songs designed for easy audience engagement. Madeline Benson, the music director, played a crucial role in refining these musical components.

The core of "Night Side Songs" lies in its ability to evoke universal emotions while maintaining a joyful atmosphere. One song, "Let's Go Walking," was inspired by conversations with individuals who found solace in walking during their illness journeys. The Lazours emphasize the importance of creating a heart-forward, service-oriented piece of theater that allows audiences to connect deeply with the material. Historical "visions" are woven into the narrative, providing context and relief from the heavier moments. These visions serve as a bridge between past and present, reminding viewers how far medical and societal attitudes toward illness have come.

Audience interaction is central to "Night Side Songs." The Lazours strive to break down the fourth wall, encouraging participants to join in singalongs without feeling singled out. During rehearsals, they observed varying levels of audience engagement and made adjustments to enhance inclusivity. The presence of performers like Mary Testa, whose commanding stage presence can draw hesitant participants into the experience, has been invaluable. As the show continues its run at UTR, the Lazours remain committed to refining it, ensuring it resonates with diverse audiences and fosters meaningful connections around the shared human experience of illness.