Four cults. Four true crime stories. Four cocktails. That’s the whole pitch for Cult Leaders, the newest chapter of the popular “Serial Killer Speakeasy” tour, and it’s landing at the Dramatic Hall in Peekskill this December 2-3.
It’s a 90-minute immersive theater experience where the stories of the Manson Family, Jonestown, Waco and Heaven’s Gate unfold live, one drink at a time. For anyone who’s ever fallen down a true-crime rabbit hole at 2 a.m., this is that rabbit hole with a bar.
4 December 2026 18:00 + more dates
Dramatic Hall
What is Serial Killer Speakeasy?
The series recreates true crime stories with a professional theater cast, designing the entire space to immerse the crowd in a chilling atmosphere. It has already built a following for turning dark history into a captivating night out.
Telling a true crime story requires a delicate balance of truth and empathy. This production is rooted in deep respect for the victims, carefully recreating the timeline of events to honor their lives and give voice to their stories.
What’s new about this edition?
Each chapter digs into what drew thousands of people to these cult leaders. A journey through the most unsettling stories, unfolding before your eyes while you hold on to the edge of your seat.
Live performers trace how each leader won absolute belief. Charisma, isolation, devotion and control show up in every story, and seeing them perform live hits differently than reading about them.
The Setlist: 4 Cults, 4 Drinks
Each chapter gets its own premium craft cocktail:
- Chapter 1: Charles Manson & the Manson Family, paired with Helter Skelter
- Chapter 2: Jim Jones & the Peoples Temple at Jonestown, paired with The Last Sermon
- Chapter 3: David Koresh & the Branch Davidians, paired with Seven Seals
- Chapter 4: Marshall Applewhite & Heaven’s Gate, paired with The Next Level
Mocktails are also available on request.
Why it’s worth a night out in NYC
It’s a story, not a slideshow. Theatrical storytellers bring each movement to life on stage. No PowerPoint, no podcast in the background.
It’s built to share with others. Date night, birthday, friends visiting from out of town: everyone leaves with something to talk about on the train home.
It works for newcomers. No true-crime expertise needed. Curiosity is enough.
It’s a short commitment. At 90 minutes, it fits an evening without taking over the whole thing, so dinner or a late bar stop still works.
Reverence for the lives lost. The play approaches these true stories with the utmost sensitivity, ensuring the victims and their legacies are honored with dignity and respect.
If the idea has been living in your head since the first paragraph, that’s usually a sign. Check out the lineup and see if spots are left for your date before the crowd catches on!
Serial Killer Speakeasy: Cult Leaders – Peekskill, NY
4 December 2026 18:00 + more dates
Dramatic Hall