Carte Blanche: Back to The Hippodrome

If you’re having trouble finding The Hippodrome Theater on August 5, look for the building with the DeLorean parked in front.

For those unfamiliar with The Hippodrome Theater, this RVA hotspot is located in Jackson Ward, once known as the “Harlem of the South.”

The event, which will launch the theater’s Carte Blanche series of theme parties, is inspired by 1985’s cinematic time-travel fantasy that explores such probing questions as whether Huey Lewis was ever young and whether Crispin Glover could ever pull off lighthearted comedy. Sponsored by Brown Distributing and Richmond Unite, Carte Blanche: Back to The Hippodrome will feature live performances by No BS! Brass Band, Black Girls, and Tungs, with background ambience created by The North Street Labs Light Show.

DJ Ghozt and DJ Fili will follow with musical motivation to keep the dance floor bustling for the rest of the night.

Guests are strongly encouraged to don costumes in the style of whatever decade – past or future – suits their fancy. Proceeds from the $5 door charge will benefit Richmond Unite. However, guests who are privy to a Carte Blanche code word may gain entry for two at no cost.

Through Carte Blanche, an ongoing series of events to be hosted by The Hippodrome, organizers hope to offer a fresh alternative in local entertainment, according to Amanda Corbelli, head of events at The Hippodrome Theater and Mansion Five26. “We hope that we can provide that party atmosphere that you see in the Bottom, with a unique twist,” she explains. Corbelli points out that the Carte Blanche events will be held on Sundays, to accommodate patrons who work in the hospitality industry or are otherwise unavailable on Friday and Saturday nights.

In addition to attracting the 21-30 crowd, the series is an opportunity to display the theater’s beauty and appeal as an amusement oasis. “As a new venue, we’re always looking for opportunities to showcase our space,” says Corbelli, adding, “We are not a nightclub, we’re not just a bar or restaurant, we’re a source of Richmond entertainment.”

For those unfamiliar with The Hippodrome Theater, this RVA hotspot is located in Jackson Ward, once known as the “Harlem of the South.” As one of Richmond’s most historic neighborhood, Jackson Ward has seen the likes of Billie Holiday and Louis Armstrong during its heyday. Today The Hippodrome has been completely restored with attention to detail and flair that has Richmonders buzzing.

Beyond Back to The Hippodrome, the theater will host two more Carte Blanche events this year and plans to throw theme parties each month in 2013.