Over the past weekend HBO hosted an immersive three-day pop-up experience to celebrate and highlight their new campaign, “Our Stories to Tell.”
The inclusive campaign supports creativity and promotes community. HBO transformed Casita Hollywood in Hollywood, CA into a multi-functional space that included a marketplace, co working space and an event space to chill, network and enjoy the festivities. “Our Stories to Tell” was created to connect with diverse, multicultural audiences through cultural programming and relatable storytelling. The pop up consisted of creatives, creators, LA natives and talent including Robin Thede, Lauren Ashley Smith, Ashley Nicole Black, Akilah Green, Quinta Brunson, Raven “Ravie B” Varona, and Iddris Sandu.
Jennifer Johnson Photography for HBO’s Our Stories to Tell
After a successful first day of linking entrepreneurs and creatives together to collaborate and network in a coworking space, HBO hosted a private after party to commemorate the weekend. The space was decorated with images from notable diverse HBO shows including, Insecure, Ballers, Euphoria and a few others. Guests were able to bop to music from the DJ set by Austin Millz as they enjoyed delicious hors d’oeuvres and signature cocktails. Attendees made their way to the “Our Stories to Tell” blackboard where they were encouraged to write what stories they would like to hear in the future. Many added that they would love more positive and healthy narratives surrounding people of color, others wanted more shows that highlight the immigrant experience in America, or the lives of children of immigrant parents. To wrap the night up, guests were in for a treat when singer, songwriter and record producer, Sir performed songs from his recent album along with his cover of Bob Marley’s “Is This Love”.
Jennifer Johnson Photography for HBO’s Our Stories to Tell: Singer Sir performs at HBO’s Our Stories to Tell
Day two kicked off with a series of events consisting of a morning run with Nike Running and Keep It Run Hundred which gave attendees the opportunity to engage and connect as they worked up a sweat. Later in the day black owned vendors were in attendance to promote their business, the ladies of A Black Lady Sketch Show joined a panel to discuss the creation of the successful show, and conversations were initiated with creatives and storytellers discussing driving the culture forward and creating an impact. These very candid discussions are exactly what is needed to help propel others along an unclear path to success in the entertainment industry. As the events of the day came to an end, HBO hosted a fun game night to let loose and unwind. Hosted by HBO favorites, Sarunas Jackson and Gabrielle Dennis led guests into a night of food trucks, classic arcade games, and game night must haves such as Uno, Spades, and Jenga. DJ Millie rocked out the DJ set as guests laughed, conversed and hit a little two step here and there. Not only did the weekend lead to crucial takeaways but attendees also go to take away HBO merchandise including personalized silk-screened sweatshirts, hats, journals and a deck of cards.
Jennifer Johnson Photography for HBO’s Our Stories to Tell: Hosts Sarunas Jackson & Gabrielle Dennis
