Under the whisper of vintage jazz and the shadow of towering arches, the Nancy Evans Dance Theatre (NEDT) invites guests to step back in time to an era of hidden doorways and secret passwords.
On Saturday, March 8, 2025, at 5 p.m., Castle Green—a historic jewel of Pasadena—will transform into an underground speakeasy for an unforgettable costume party, complete with live aerial performances, gourmet food, thrilling auctions, and an evening of revelry that promises to be nothing short of criminally fun.
“To miss it would be criminal!” boasts the event’s playful invitation, capturing the spirit of an era known for its clandestine gatherings and extravagant entertainment.
Attendees are encouraged to don their finest disguises and prepare for an evening that dances between fantasy and history, celebrating both the legacy of Castle Green and the artistic vision of NEDT.
Castle Green, built in 1898 as an annex to the famed Hotel Green, stands as a testament to Pasadena’s rich architectural heritage. Designed by Frederick I. Roehrig, the seven-story masterpiece harmoniously blends Moorish, Spanish, and Victorian design elements. A rare treasure in Southern California, Castle Green’s unique aesthetic and historical significance make it a fitting backdrop for this exclusive event.
Castle Green is only open to the public twice a year, making this speakeasy soirée a rare and exclusive opportunity to explore one of the region’s most celebrated landmarks. The rarity of public access adds to the allure, ensuring that guests will experience an evening steeped in history and mystique.
The night promises a dazzling showcase of live aerial performances by celebrated artists Ashleigh Doede, Jenn Logan, and Nairi Tahmizyan, who will mesmerize audiences with gravity-defying choreography against the grandeur of Castle Green’s historic interiors. Their stunning performances promise to captivate and awe, blending strength, elegance, and artistry to create a mesmerizing spectacle.
With gourmet food, live music, libations, and exciting auction items featuring unique prizes, the evening offers an immersive experience that blends vintage elegance with contemporary artistic expression. Attendees will be treated to a night of fun and entertainment, evoking the secretive and glamorous ambiance of the original speakeasies from the Prohibition era.
Beyond the glamour and intrigue, the event serves a greater purpose. Proceeds will benefit the artistic and outreach programming of Nancy Evans Dance Theatre, a modern dance company dedicated to storytelling through movement. Founded in 2009 under the artistic direction of Nancy Evans Doede, NEDT fosters artistic collaboration across generations, bringing together dancers from ages 20 to over 60. Their mission extends beyond performance, aiming to engage the community through innovative dance narratives and outreach initiatives that inspire cultural dialogue.
The speakeasy-themed soirée is more than just a night of escapism—it is an opportunity to support a local institution that continues to enrich Pasadena’s cultural landscape. By attending, guests will contribute to NEDT’s mission of promoting artistic expression and community engagement, ensuring that modern dance remains a vibrant and accessible art form.
Castle Green, 99 S. Raymond Ave., Pasadena, CA 91105. For more information, visit nancyevansdancetheatre.
