Experience the Vibe of 1974 at Catch One’s Funk Concert with Engaging Immersive Theater

A man identifying only as “Hey” describes himself as a “travel agent,” a term he uses with irony to imply a more illicit role. He is speaking to a small group crammed into a corner of the vibrant nightclub Catch One, where the atmosphere is a mix of excitement and anonymity. The setting, likely a makeup room in other circumstances, has transformed into a refuge for an evening of immersive experience.

As the sounds of a lively funk band reverberate from next door, the atmosphere crackles with energy. “Close your eyes,” he instructs, as he offers something resembling psychedelic mints to help escape the overwhelming realities of life. His storytelling reveals a depth of trauma from his days in Vietnam, yet the mood remains light, emphasizing the idea that music can offer solace even when it doesn’t change the world.

“Brassroots District: LA ’74” serves as a unique blend of concert, participatory theater, and cultural experiment. The show invites audience members to explore narratives revolving around the underground music scene, particularly its significance for the LGBTQ+ community. Attendees have the option to follow the cast to uncover stories of resilience or simply enjoy the music and dance.

Currently running at Catch One, “Brassroots District” aims to recreate the vibrancy of 1974, but creators Ari Herstand and Andrew Leib seek more than mere nostalgia. The fictional band at the heart of the narrative draws inspiration from Sly and the Family Stone, renowned for their message of unity amid social upheaval. The show also pays homage to the club’s pioneering founder, Jewel Thais-Williams, who championed a safe haven for Black queer individuals and anyone exploring their identity through music.

“This is the era of Watergate and Nixon,” Herstand noted, explaining the intentional choice of 1974 as a backdrop for the performance. “There are clear political parallels between the early ‘70s and 2026. We aren’t aiming to hit anyone over the head with this, but we want to provoke thought about our history.”

This iteration of “Brassroots District” is not the first; Herstand and Leib have been developing the concept for a decade. Originally an idea conceived during Herstand’s stay with family in New Orleans while writing his book, “How to Make it in the New Music Business,” it has evolved from a musical concept into a fully immersive theatrical experience, influenced by productions like New York’s “Sleep No More.”

“It’s really about an alternative experience to a traditional proscenium show, giving the audience autonomy to explore,” Herstand explained. Eleven actors bring the story to life, under the direction of DeMone Seraphin and with contributions from L.A. immersive theater veterans Chris Porter and Lauren Ludwig. While some audience members engage directly with the performers, the show culminates in a lively group dance, embodying the communal spirit of funk.

Ultimately, “Brassroots District” operates as both a concert and a narrative experience. The band released its debut album “Welcome to the Brassroots District” earlier this year, allowing audiences to either relax and absorb the music or delve deeper into the unfolding drama surrounding the band’s record deal. Many attendees appeared eager to explore all facets of the show, as evidenced by their swift movement to follow the band when an unexpected split in the performance took place.

Those who remained in the main area were not left out either; the show featured moments of dramatic confrontation between a journalist and a record executive, mingling with spectators and extending the narrative beyond the confines of the stage. Each audience member participates as a character in this innovative storytelling, even as actors subtly guide interactions.

“The point is,” Leib emphasized, “that you as an audience member are also kind of putting on a character. You can stir the spot.” Many attendees dressed in 1970s attire, adding to the immersive experience, while an outright prohibition on smartphones heightened the atmosphere.

The show runs for approximately two hours and is slated to continue through March, with hopes for a longer engagement. Previous versions were staged outdoors in the aftermath of the pandemic, but both creators always envisioned bringing it inside to venues rich with history. “It’s in the bones of the building that this was a respite for queer men and the Black community,” Leib remarked. “We’re baking in themes of resistance through art and music.”

This message resonates particularly through one of the show’s central songs, “Together,” inspired by Sly and the Family Stone’s “Everyday People.” Herstand encapsulated the sentiment of the performance: “We are stronger when we unite,” highlighting their goal of fostering community and connection.

On this particular night, “Brassroots District” offers a joyous gathering, inviting everyone to join in the celebration of music, identity, and togetherness.