New York City: Dueling Pianos Show

Imagine spending an evening in New York City filled with lively music, hearty laughs, and spontaneous sing-alongs. The Dueling Pianos Request Show at the Cutting Room offers exactly that — a three-hour romp where two talented piano entertainers take requests from the audience, playing everything from classic rock to pop hits. For just $36 per person, you gain access to an energetic night of music, comedy, and interaction that’s ideal for groups ready to let loose.

What we love about this experience is how accessible it is — you don’t need to be a seasoned music fan to have a blast. The show’s interactive nature, where your song requests are front and center, makes every night unique. Plus, the lively atmosphere and friendly hosts create a sense of camaraderie, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking to enjoy a different side of NYC’s nightlife.

On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that food and drinks are not included, so you’ll want to budget for those separately. Also, the show is geared towards a more adult audience, with children under 16 generally not recommended. If you’re seeking a memorable, high-energy night out that combines humor, music, and a touch of unpredictability, this show could be just the ticket.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy interactive entertainment, love singing along, or want a fun, informal way to experience NYC’s vibrant live music scene. It also works well for groups celebrating birthdays, bachelor/bachelorette parties, or just a night to connect with friends over shared music and laughter.

Key Points

Interactive performance where you can request songs and see two talented pianists perform live.
Unpretentious, fun atmosphere perfect for celebrating special occasions or just having a memorable night out.
Includes table seating inside the popular Cutting Room venue, with options to order food and drinks separately.
Duration of 3 hours ensures a lively, engaging evening that won’t wear out its welcome.
Not suitable for children under 16, making it a more adult-oriented experience.
Accessible and flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Dueling Pianos Experience in NYC

For broader city exploration in New York City, we've covered these other tours

The Venue: The Cutting Room

Located in the heart of Manhattan, the Cutting Room is a well-known hotspot for live music and comedy. This historic venue offers an intimate yet vibrant setting that enhances the energetic vibe of the show. Walking in, you’re greeted at the will call desk, where your tickets await, and you’re led to your assigned table. The venue’s atmosphere strikes a nice balance — lively but not overwhelming, making it easy to relax and enjoy the show.

The Show Itself: What to Expect

Once seated, the evening kicks off with the hosts introducing the two piano players, who are generally highly skilled and engaging. We loved the way the performers interacted with the audience, encouraging requests and responding with humor and talent. The core of the show involves two piano entertainers playing simultaneously, creating a back-and-forth dynamic that keeps the energy high.

You’ll find a wide range of song options on the playlist, from Billy Joel and Bon Jovi to Britney Spears and Bruno Mars. Guests are invited to request their favorites, and the pianists often take turns playing different songs, sometimes even improvising or adding humorous commentary. One review notes that “everyone enjoyed themselves” and that the pianists kept the crowd engaged, which is exactly what a good dueling piano show aims for.

The Interaction and Audience Participation

What makes this experience stand out is the audience participation. The performers encourage requests, and often, the crowd responds enthusiastically. This creates a night of spontaneous fun, with some moments more polished than others, but all full of spirit. For example, a guest might shout out a song, and the pianist will happily take it on, transforming an ordinary evening into a personalized concert.

More Great Tours Nearby

Food, Drinks, and Additional Costs

While the ticket includes admission and table seating, food and drinks are not included. You can purchase at your own expense, and this is often where the real value comes in — the venue offers a menu of snacks, drinks, and even full meals if you arrive early or linger afterward. Keep in mind, there’s a mandatory 20% tip and a minimum purchase of two items per guest, which can add to your bill.

While you're exploring New York City, here are other experiences we've looked into

The Experience: What Reviews Say

The overall reviews are quite positive, averaging 4.5 out of 5. Guests love the interactive nature and the chance to request favorite songs. One reviewer from the UK called it a “very enjoyable night”, emphasizing that the pianists kept everyone engaged. Another mentioned the show was “good fun” and that everyone enjoyed themselves.

However, there are some critiques. For example, one traveler from the UK noted that “the two pianists were playing together rather than duelling,” which might be a slight disappointment for those expecting a more competitive duel. Others mentioned that one of the performers could be a bit more energetic or polished, but overall, the atmosphere remains lively and entertaining.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This show is perfect for those who enjoy singing, dancing, and laughter. It’s especially suited for adults and older teens looking for a casual, energetic night out. It’s not ideal for children under 16, mainly because of the adult-oriented humor and the drinking environment. If you’re seeking a relaxed, social experience that’s more about fun than sophistication, this is a solid choice.

Practical Details: Booking and Accessibility

The show is available for free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, adding flexibility if your plans change. It typically runs in the evening, and the duration is three hours, making it a substantial outing without feeling overly long. The venue is wheelchair accessible, and the staff primarily speak English, ensuring smooth communication.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For a modest price, you get a night of interactive entertainment that’s lively, humorous, and inclusive. You’ll leave with a smile, maybe a sore throat from singing, and plenty of stories to tell. The combination of talented performers, audience participation, and a fun venue makes this a great option for travelers wanting a different taste of NYC nightlife.

If you’re someone who appreciates music with personality, enjoys group entertainment, or simply wants to experience New York’s vibrant live music scene without breaking the bank, this show is worth considering. Just remember to arrive hungry — the food and drinks are extra — and ready to cheer or request your favorite song.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is food and drinks included in the ticket price? No, food and drinks are not included. You can purchase these separately, and there’s a 20% mandatory tip.

Can I request any song I want? Yes, the show invites audience members to request songs from a broad playlist, including hits from various genres.

Is the show suitable for children? No, it’s generally not recommended for children under 16 due to the adult-oriented humor and environment.

How long is the show? The performance lasts approximately three hours, making for a lively evening.

Is the venue accessible for wheelchairs? Yes, the venue is wheelchair accessible.

Do I need to book in advance? Yes, tickets can be reserved ahead of time, with the option to cancel for free up to 24 hours before the event.

What’s the dress code? There’s no strict dress code, but casual smart attire is appropriate.

Are the performers local or touring acts? The show features talented pianists who are likely professional entertainers, creating an engaging and lively atmosphere.

What if I don’t know what song to request? No problem — just shout out your favorite artist or genre, and the pianist might surprise you!

Can I bring a group? Absolutely — groups tend to enjoy the interactive nature, making it an ideal choice for celebrations or fun nights out.

Whether you’re a music lover, a fan of lively nightlife, or simply looking to experience something uniquely New York, the Dueling Pianos Show at Cutting Room offers a memorable, entertaining night out. It’s a great way to enjoy NYC’s vibrant scene, sing your heart out, and share some laughs with friends.