NYC’s hottest new performance venue is hiding in plain sight — atop an 18,000 square-foot billboard in Times Square.
Rapper Post Malone christened the cutting-edge concert space, hanging from the front of the new TSX Broadway building on the southeast corner of 7th Avenue and 47th Street.
The “Rockstar” artist treated New Yorkers and visitors from around the world to an impromptu, 18-minute set — at the height of the evening rush hour.
The singer-songwriter ably ran through some of his greatest hits, along with a fresh track from “Austin,” Malone’s anticipated next album, dropping July 28.
“I’m the first guy to do this and I was super terrified because I know everyone has a busy day and a busy schedule,” Malone told reporters before the show, according to Billboard. “Hopefully I don’t f – – k it up.”
The unexpected event left the top end of the Crossroads of the World packed enough to frighten cab drivers for blocks — a welcome sight after the district’s pandemic-era — and post-pandemic — struggles.
“This iconic moment not only marks the beginning of a new era for live performances in Times Square but also showcases our commitment to providing unique and unforgettable experiences for fans around the world,” TSX Entertainment co-founder and CEO Nick Holmsten promised.
The entertainment company partnered with chicken finger restaurant chain Raising Cane’s, as well as Harley-Davidson, to sponsor the venue’s christening. Raising Cane’s opened its first NYC location in Times Square in late June.
Besides the expected array of live performances, the new stage and billboard can be rented for premieres, personal use and other marketing stunts.
Phil Meynell, the stage’s creator, promised that the venue “is going to be the number one tentpole in pop culture.”
Times Square has slowly been regaining its footing after a multi-year lull.
A report released by the Times Square Alliance in April stated that pedestrian traffic in the neighborhood, which fell to roughly 30,000 people per day in the spring of 2020, has bounced back considerably, averaging 286,961 visitors per day in 2022. The 2019 daily average was 356,059 visitors.
