Pandemonium, Cleveland Public Theatre’s annual benefit and art party, is known as one of the wildest, most spectacular events in the city. That description certainly captured the spirit and tone of this year’s festivities. Billed as a “choose-your-own-adventure” style event across CPT’s Gordon Square campus, Pandemonium featured 300 artists debuting 50 original works and musical acts.  

There were performers in butterfly costumes rappelling down the walls of the historic Gordon Square Theatre. An intimate, cabaret-style show was tucked off to the side of the main stage. A full-fledged Brazilian band with male and female dancers kept the crowd grooving. And brief yet intriguing previews of the upcoming 2014-2015 season were performed.

At first, guests roved around the campus, hopping between performances and noshing on food from local restaurants. Then there was a short ceremony honoring Beth Mooney, Chairman and CEO of KeyBank, with the 2014 PAN Award for her commitment to the arts. Finally, the night was capped off with Pureplex DJs providing the beats to get everyone moving, with hordes of partygoers crowding onto the dance floor.

CPT’s mission is to “raise consciousness and nurture compassion through groundbreaking performances and life-changing educational programs.” Since it was founded by James Levin in 1981, the theatre has become known for its boundary-pushing performances. CPT helps local artists develop new work, launches “nationally significant new plays” and works with over 500 urban youth and adults each year.

Here is a visual recap courtesy of Fresh Water photographer Bob Perkoski.

Music Kevin McLeod