Gala fundraiser to give guests taste of Roaring ’20s

The Oklahoma Historical Society will host a Prohibition-era evening of fun during “A Night in the Life: The Roaring Twenties.”

The fundraising event will be from 7 to 10 p.m. Oct. 20 at the Oklahoma History Center, 800 Nazih Zuhdi Drive in the state Capitol complex. Benefiting the historical society and its flagship base of operations, the event will be an immersive evening set in the Roaring 1920s with three themed spaces: A Prohibitionera barrelhouse featuring live blues music; a mingling area with food, bar and dance lessons; and an exclusive speak-easy featuring live jazz music and an open bar.

With a focus on historical detail and fun, the event will allow revelers to feel as if they have stepped back in time with appearances by Will Rogers, a “hold up” by Pretty Boy Floyd, protests by temperance supporters and a police raid.

Guests are encouraged to dress in time period attire and will have the opportunity to add accessories to their costumes in the dress-up station. Guests will hear Harold Aldridge singing the blues at the Prohibition-era barrelhouse and Walter Taylor and Taylor Made Jazz playing jazz-era hits in the speak-easy. Dance instructors will teach 1920s favorites such as the Lindy Hop and the Charleston.

Tickets are $40 for general admission and $100 for VIP access to the speakeasy. The event is for guests ages 21 and older.

For more information, go to www.okhistory. org/gala.