L.A. Dance Project Plans a Dynamic Romp Through Union Station

The organization’s annual gala takes place at the largest passenger rail terminal in the West

Words by ELIZABETH VARNELL

 

LADP gala
Union Station. PHOTO: Josh S. Rose.

 

L.A. Dance Project cofounder Benjamin Millepied has always envisioned dance as a free-form work, something that takes place inside the city’s performing arts theaters but also at art galleries or on a grassy hill, a sidewalk, or a parking lot. As LADP’s upcoming annual gala approaches on Sunday, October 19, the company will perform at Union Station, in a program presented by Van Cleef & Arpels with support from Lanvin, at the downtown landmark designed by architects John and Donald Parkinson connecting the city with rail lines crossing the country.

Le Rendez-Vous, a cocktail reception paired with a live performance, will kick off the evening as hors d’oeuvres and cocktails make the rounds in the historic Fred Harvey restaurant and bar designed in classic Spanish Revival style by architect Mary Elizabeth Jane Colter.

After beginning the night at the cocktail reception, gala guests will enter the Main Ticketing Concourse for a seated dinner by chef Curtis Stone and LADP’s complete performance, including pieces by a range of choreographers (rumor has it that Millepied may also dance). The company has collaborated with such artists as Mark Bradford and Barbara Kruger and has brought global artists to town, and the evening ensures the continuation of such projects as well as dance education initiatives and residencies pairing dancers with mentorship to develop and create new work.

Tickets for Le Rendez-Vous, $250; gala tickets for the entire evening start at $2,500. To purchase, click here or email peter@ladanceproject.org.

 

Union Station. PHOTO: Josh S. Rose.

 

October 2, 2025

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