Working with Atlas Obscura I helped put together a little summer soiree, that was anything but normal.
The Untermyer Gardens was once one of the grandest gardens in the United States. It features a Persian Garden, a Medusa Pool, A “Love Temple” and is home to the only two ancient Pillars from Rome in the Western Hemisphere. In its heyday, Mrs. Untermyer hosted leading artists and put on lavish performance parties. Isadora Duncan danced there, the first Theremin performance happened in the gardens and countless other works helped create its magical atmosphere.
Sadly, after the Untermyer family past away, the gardens were handed over to the state and fell into neglect. In the 70’s and 80’s it was a strange place of satanic ritual and graffiti. Luckily, the gardens are slowly getting restored and visitors are welcome to visit the gardens today.
The Great Forgotten Garden Party was set during the day and went into the early part of the evening. We tried to incorporate as many elements of its past as we could. I played classical music with a string trio in the amphitheater, Arabic music with belly dancers and snakes greeted people late afternoon, harp music and singing filled the Love Temple and Theremin lullabies closed the starry evening.
On a more technical side note, since I started Into The Veil, I have been working with Cathal Moore on Audio & Visuals. Cathal and his team did a fantastic job lighting the gardens at night. It was absolutely incredible! Pictures below~
My string trio playing in the amphitheater.
Lauren Jeanette Caspar
Myself, Reenat and Alex after our performance
The Temple of Love
The Amphitheater at night.
