Welcome to Leila’s Gin Joint

And Nicole’s Murder Mystery Dinner Party

On Saturday, August 16 at 6pm, Leila’s Gin Joint is hosting a special party for Harlem elites. Together, we’ll honor the loss of owner Madame Marie’s late husband, and celebrate her new role as manager of Leila’s.

Allegedly, someone on the guest list is on someone’s else’s hit list – and may not make it home.

Read the full story >

About Leila’s

Leila’s Gin Joint is a private speakeasy nestled in the heart of Harlem in a historic brownstone that offers food, drinks and entertainment for the elite.

Listen to our radio advertisement on WEAF.

Since its establishment in 1921, Leila’s Gin Joint has become the hottest speakeasy in town. Here’s who you’re likely to spot in attendance:

Who’s Who

Madame Marie

Owner and Host

As the widow to Louie Marie, the original Gin Joint owner, Madame Marie not only inherited a gold mine but the power that comes with it. It is hard to say, is Madame Marie out to avenge her husband's death or capitalize on it?

Played by Nicole Cardoza >

Infamous Irene

North Side Mob Boss

Since the rise of organized crime in Harlem, Irene’s operation has done nothing but prosper. With Irene having so much power, she seems to have a lot going for (and against) her.

Played by Metty Fisseha >

Sylvia Freeman

Infamous Irene's Girlfriend

One of the most popular women in Harlem, Sylvia had no interest in Irene until she realized what Irene could do for her lifestyle.

Played by Imani Payne >

Cy Ramsey

Bouncer at Leila’s Gin Joint and North Side Gang member

Cy's success in Irene's operation could be considered a threat to those in the operation....and to those opposing it.

Played by Adam Constantine >

Mayor Washington

Mayor

As the head of the city, the Mayor's power is what many seek. However, is it the Mayor who is really calling the shots or are the decisions coming from someone else?

Played by Rachel Cargle >

Chief Cameron

Police Chief

As the city's main law enforcement officer, Cameron enforces the Mayor's decisions...but whose side are they really on?

Played by Paula Maouyo >

Cindy Butt

Cigarette Girl at Leila’s Gin Joint

Responsible for ruining many lives, Cindy doesn't stop at spreading rumors to get her way.

Played by Chanté Harris >

Dorsey James

Artist

A sophisticated singer and performer who was formerly married to Infamous Irene, Dorsey is a confident man who never lets anything get him down and is attracted to people with power and influence.

Played by Alvin Stampley >

Bernie Booze

Bootlegger

Bernie had one of the most successful bootlegging businesses in town before Infamous Irene had them blacklisted. Will Bernie’s business end up dying for their mistake or will someone else?

Played by Navneet Dogra >

Kitty Cocktail

Cocktail Waitress

As the cocktail waitress at Leila's Gin Joint, a lavish speakeasy, Kitty mingles among Harlem's most influential people and earns grandiose tips. She is deeply in love with and supportive of her boyfriend Cy Ramsey.

Played by Erica Elan Ciganek >

Southside Sal

South Side Mob Boss

It is no secret that Sal has been making a push to expand his territory. The real secret may be who is working with him.

Played by Ivan Alo >

P.I. Pinkerton

Investigator

As the private detective on the scene, P.I.'s job will be to take charge and decipher the clues and reveal the truth.

TBA

Party Details

Saturday, August 16

6pm - 10pm

Dinner and cocktails will be provided

The speakeasy location will be sent to you closer to the date to protect its privacy.

Leila’s Rules of Etiquette

Show, Don’t Tell

We like to keep a bit of mystery here at Leila’s. Before the party begins, use discretion when talking about your backstory – or you might find yourself in hot water! Allow your backstory to emerge naturally during the evening’s festivities.

Make Some Moolah

We cater to a diverse community with only one thing in common – we love to make money. We encourage you to take every advantage to make a dollar – bribery and blackmail aren’t frowned upon here. The wealthiest guest at the end of the evening will get a prize.

Stay Aware

We rarely have trouble at our respected establishment, but you never know what could happen when such powerful people are together. Make sure you know who you are, and are listening and reading any intel you make discover…

Dress Code

We dress to impress at Leila’s. You’re welcome to dress formal from your favorite decade, but are encouraged to stay on script.

We have a costume library with accessories onsite to help you feel your best.

Explore Inspo >

Current Rotation

Here’s what we’re jiving to at Leila’s this month.

Listen on Spotify >

Real Life Inspiration

Stephanie St. Clair, Harlem's 'Numbers Queen,' Dominated the Gambling Underground and Made Millions

Read >

In Harlem, Mourning Another Historic and Cultural Marker

Read >

How Black America Helped Define Cocktail Culture

Read >

Fabulous Harlem, The Sweet History Of Sugar Hill

Read >