Can you believe it’s been a whole decade since The Wild Detectives first opened its doors? From the get-go, they’ve thrown themselves into all sorts of events – music gigs, literary talks, storytelling nights – you name it.
We at Deep Vellum Publishing are teaming up with The Wild Detectives to throw a massive party, celebrating not just their 10th anniversary but ours too (it’s our 11th)! This isn’t just any party. We’re talking three days packed with everything that makes The Wild Detectives and Deep Vellum the places we all love. DJ Christy Ray is gonna be there, spinning some killer tracks. Then there’s Velada Vinilo, where your vinyl could steal the show, and Afro Perreo, where the beats will have you dancing non-stop. Baba Kuboye‘s bringing his incredible Afrobeat vibes, and we’re also stoked to have Ukrainian author Oksana Lutsyshyna share her stories with us. Oh, and keep your eyes peeled for a surprise poetry pop-up that’s sure to knock your socks off.
And because no party’s complete without some ink, Gino Dal Cin & Cactus Killer will be on hand for tattoos. We’re firing up the grill for a family BBQ courtesy of DallasPitmen, too, because what’s a celebration without good food?
This is a free event!
Here’s the lowdown on what’s happening:
LITERATURE & STORYTELLING
An award-winning Ukrainian author and poet, Oksana Lutsyshyna captures deep themes of identity and human emotions in her work. She’s celebrated for her impactful storytelling, earning the Taras Shevchenko National Award among others. As an Assistant Professor at the University of Texas at Austin, she brings Ukrainian literature and language to wider audiences. Her writings, rich in Eastern European cultural insights, connect universally with readers around the world.
Special Poetic Feature (Saturday)
Be ready!
Inner Moonline and Talking Dirty Special Anniversary Edition (Sunday)
Special edition blending “Talking Dirty” and “Inner Moonlight,” WD’s cherished monthly events. “Talking Dirty” features vivid, real-life stories hosted by Ray Butler, while “Inner Moonlight,” led by Logen Cure for six years, has become a poetic cornerstone of the city. This unique fusion promises an unforgettable night of storytelling and poetry.
MUSIC & DANCE
Afro Perreo (Saturday)
Join El Nick and Elkin Pautt on a rhythmic journey that transcends continents, as we bring you “From Mother Africa to America Latina.” This extraordinary dance experience is a vibrant tapestry woven with the rich threads of African heritage and the dynamic dance music that echoes through the diaspora of the New World. Witness the enchanting fusion of two dance traditions, uniting their magic within a single space
From Lagos, Nigeria, to Texas, Baba Kuboye brings his West African roots to life through music. His journey, rooted in the Jazz 38 Club founded by his parents and visited by Fela Kuti, blends his Yoruba heritage with modern vibes, reminiscent of stars like Burna Boy and Wizkid. This mix of traditional influence and contemporary flair makes his sound both fresh and familiar.
DJ Christy Ray, following in her mother DJ Spinderella’s footsteps, has become a standout DJ in Dallas. Raised in Los Angeles, her energetic sets blend hip-hop and R&B, making her a crowd favorite. With an infectious energy and a knack for curating resonant beats, Christy Ray showcases her dynamic talent behind the decks, solidifying her status as a top DJ in the city.
Poppy Xanders & Friends (Saturday)
Poppy Xander, a Dallas native, is known for blending Space Opera, classical piano, country, and synth-electronica. After an early obsession with classical piano and a journey through symphonic metal, Xander has released solo albums and contributes to diverse projects, including Helium Queens and The Polyphonic Spree.
Velada Vinilo (Friday)
A vinyl swap and listening party where you can share your favorite tracks and maybe win a new record.
Jack Montesinos and Joe Roddy, with their diverse instrumental talents and shared passion for genres like Texas blues and Pacific jazz, have formed a dynamic musical duo. Their collaboration, which began in middle school, has led them to perform with notable artists and even contribute to recordings for acts like Black Pumas and Charley Crockett, alongside producing music with Nico Leophonte
Loose Sounds (Sunday)
Loose Sounds: Dive into our acoustic jam session, open to all musicians and neighbors! Bring your instrument, meet fellow artists, and enjoy a relaxed, collaborative atmosphere. It’s a great chance to connect and create. Join us and let’s make music together
Mutarrancho & DJ Tempranillo (Saturday)
Ernesto Montiel, alias Mutarrancho, hails from Maracaibo, Venezuela. An artist and DJ with an architectural background, he’s been a fixture in Dallas’s music scene since 2015. Known for his experimental and Latin sets, he’s graced stages at The Wild Detectives, Texas Theater, and Austin’s No Idea Festival. DJ Tempranillo, from Madrid, brings his eclectic mixes to the festival. Opening with engaging tracks and connecting acts with his unique style, he’ll end the night with a Bookstore Disco, inviting everyone to dance to hits spanning three decades.
TATOOS, ARTISTS & MERCH
Gino Dal Cin, Cactus Killer and Staci Xilo, Forbidenfruit, Robert Garza, Briana Tully, Tiffany Hannah, Whitney Warren
This festival is more than just a celebration; it’s a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has been part of our story. Join us as we embark on the next chapter, filled with more stories, music, and community connections.