On this week's episode of Out and About, Mae Gilliland of ArtsPartners of Central Illinois talks with Rick Blanco, founder of Casablanco Creative, about Blood Moon, an immersive vampire-themed experience transforming Obed & Isaac’s in downtown Peoria throughout October.
Set within the historic 1889 church building, Blood Moon combines theatrical installations, atmospheric lighting, live entertainment and gothic-inspired artwork to create an environment where guests become part of the story. Blanco explains that the experience is built around a fictional truce between humans and vampires, allowing visitors to enter their world without becoming the evening’s next meal.
“Hopefully as you walk in, you’re going to feel like you’re immersed in it,” Blanco said.
Three distinct ticketed experiences take place Thursday through Saturday across the final three weekends of October. Thursdays feature Bloodlines: Moonlit Feast, an intimate wine tasting and dinner inspired by vampire cinema. Fridays bring Crimson Spirits: A Haunted Cabaret, featuring opera singer Jennifer Rosa, musical duo Black Velvet, fire juggling, belly dancing, tarot readings and performances unfolding throughout the venue. Saturdays feature Vampire Ball: Dance of the Immortals, with themed costumes, dancing and a Halloween night celebration.
For Blanco, who also creates gothic-inspired fine art under the name Dienzo, the event is an extension of his long-standing fascination with the romance, mystery and visual artistry of vampire lore.
Blood Moon continues throughout October at Obed & Isaac’s in Peoria, with special ticketed experiences Oct. 15–17, 22–24 and 29–31 for guests ages 21 and older. A partnership with Four Points Sheraton Peoria also offers special hotel rates for visitors interested in extending their stay in Peoria.
