Get ready for an exciting, history-filled evening.

On Friday, April 20, 2018, get dolled up for the modern speakeasy-inspired Equest After Dark Gala, a shake of the backrooms of the prohibition era mixed with a twenty-first-century twist and served in one of Dallas’ most historically authentic locations, Deep Ellum’s Bomb Factory.

The evening, hosted by Honorary Co-Chairs Sue and Ben Casey and Co-Chairs Susan and Jon Farrier, celebrates the achievements of Equest’s remarkable 37-year history of enhancing the quality of life for children and adults with diverse needs through the human-horse connection.

The sophisticated soiree (sans bathtub gin and white lightning), guided by emcees Jody Dean of KLUV 98.7 FM and Jocelyn White of Designing Texas, will begin with a signature welcome cocktail from Skyy Vodka and passed hors d’oeuvres to ignite a captivating, energetic evening.

A fabulous seated dinner created by Farm to Market Catering, complimentary wine and beer, and oversized dessert station will balance non-stop entertainment featuring games of chance (Blackjack, Roulette, Craps, and a Wheel of Fortune), not-to-be-missed silent and live auctions, lively performances by The Texas Gypsies and Emerald City, (known as “the country’s best dance and party band”), and dancing, dancing, and more dancing at the after-party.

The historical relevance of The Bomb Factory and Deep Ellum neighborhood is fitting for the Equest After Dark theme. Built in the early 1900’s, The Bomb Factory was used to manufacture Henry Ford’s automobiles until WWII when it was commissioned to produce bombs and ammunition for the armed forces, and now is the setting for many prominent downtown events.

In the 1920’s, Deep Ellum was the epicenter for early jazz and blues musicians that performed in a number of nightclubs, cafes, and domino parlors within the neighborhood. Such names as Blind Lemon Jefferson, Huddie “Leadbelly” Ledbetter, and Robert Leroy Johnson are just a few early musicians that solidified Deep Ellum’s importance in music history.

Equest CEO Lili Kellogg says, “Just like The Bomb Factory and Deep Ellum, Equest is modernizing our traditional way of doing things while still paying tribute to our incredible 37-year past. We are excited to produce this year’s gala, as it will be an extraordinary and new experience: a new venue, a more casual-yet-sophisticated concept, and fun-filled new fundraising activities.”

The Equest After Dark Gala will be held Friday, April 20, 2018 starting at 6:30 p.m. at The Bomb Factory (2713 Canton Street, Dallas, TX, 75226).

Sponsorships are available at various levels from $3,000 to $15,000. Tables (of eight) are available to purchase for $2,000, individual tickets for $225, and after-party (exclusively) for $40 at www.equest.org/2018gala. Dress is cocktail, vintage, or modern attire.

For more information, visit www.equest.org or call 972.412.1099.