TO LIve and di(n)e in L.A.

While the shows I created were mostly within the nightlife/immersive theatre vein, To Live and Di(n)e in L.A. was a special dining experience rooted in storytelling through food, beverage, and performance. Originally created as part of Think Tank Gallery’s Drinkin’, Smokin’ West Coastin’ ode-to-LA art show, To Live and Di(n)e developed a life of its own. Eventually, it became a bi-annual supper club that sold out each time it popped up.

The concept? Guests sit down with the ghosts of infamous L.A. serial killers past, learning their stories and unraveling various mysteries as the food and beverages freely flowed. Picture a lo-fi version of Queen of the Night, by way of American Horror Story: Hotel.

Diners met Elizabeth Short (aka The Black Dahlia) and her supposed killer, George Hodel, Harvey Glatman, Judy Ann Dull, Charles Manson, Susan Atkins, and Richard Ramirez, all within the context of a carefully curated dining experience. Each of the four courses and cocktail pairings were inspired by the killers and the time periods in which they were most prolific. In between courses, live performances like burlesque, ballet, and marionette puppetry ushered guests from one era to the next, ending in a sinister climax that challenged the audience to reflect on their own dark tendencies. 

TimeOut Los Angeles hailed it as “the most morbid — but entertaining — meal you can find in Los Angeles.” One day, just maybe, I’ll bring this experience back from the dead.

Partners (multiple iterations): Mulholland Spirits, Our/Los Angeles Vodka, Lucid Absinthe, Peroni Beer, Fliquor Bean Coffee Whiskey

Chefs: Felix Barron, Leslie Pollack, Christena Quinn, Pat Saphyakhajon

Entertainment: Rasuptin’s Marionettes (puppetry), Olivia Bellafontaine (burlesque), Claudia Musikul (ballet), Lena Fumi (contortion)

Role: Writer, Director, Executive Producer