MARYSVILLE, CA (MPG) - Yuba Sutter Arts & Culture proudly presents the next in its series of unique events in a hidden-away corner of its Sutter Theater Center for the Arts. Get the secret code and be part of the Valentine’s Day Edition Speakeasy on February 10th from 6-8pm. Tickets are $35 which includes appetizers, a glass of champagne, and sweet treats. The address is 754 Plumas Street in Yuba City.

Bartender brings the 1920’s to the 2020’s. Photo courtesy of David Read

Live music will be provided by the incomparable Jim Achilles of Idle Fret. The speakeasy will also welcome a special guest bartender, Justin France. Guests will provide spirited conversation in this unique setting to really enliven the event. Tickets are available at yubasutterarts.org. Ticketholders will enter through the main theater doors but will need a secret code to enter the speakeasy for the added thrill of exclusivity.  Costumes are encouraged but are not required.  Sign up early as seating is limited to 25 guests. This is a 21+ event.

So, what is a speakeasy anyway? Back during Prohibition from 1920-1933ish, speakeasies, also called blind pigs, were illicit drinking establishments that sold alcoholic beverages. During that time, the manufacture, sale, and transportation of alcoholic beverages was illegal throughout the United States. It was crucial that patrons kept quiet about these secret bars, thus the term "speakeasy."  Speakeasies largely disappeared after Prohibition ended. Nowadays, the concept is enjoying a renaissance in mostly urban environments with retro-style bars that replicate the secretive aspects and vibe of historical speakeasies. The new speakeasy trend began in 2000 with the opening of the bar Milk & Honey in New York. 

View inside the speakeasy. Photo courtesy of David Read

Today's speakeasies still offer a special and unique evening, without the illegal activity. It is fun to offer a hidden cocktail lounge for savvy Yuba-Sutter partygoers in a bar tucked away behind secret doors, complete with password-protected experiences that give a person the thrill of exclusivity. With speakeasies evolving and becoming a thing even in more rural communities, the Sutter Theater Center for the Arts Projector Room Speakeasy makes it easy for Yuba-Sutter residents to enjoy this experience close to home.

Patrons celebrating at the speakeasy. Photo courtesy of David Read