Tickets for Academic Lectures Sell Out in Minutes at LA Bars

On a chilly Monday evening, the Zebulon venue in Frogtown, Los Angeles, transformed into an unexpected classroom as tickets for the latest event in the *Lectures on Tap* series sold out within minutes. Attendees, some donning casual attire, eagerly filled the venue, cocktails in hand, to listen to adjunct professor Drew McClellan from the USC School of Cinematic Arts. His engaging presentation focused on the elements of tone and movement in cinema, captivating the audience with film clips and interactive dialogue.

As McClellan explained the intricacies of visual storytelling, he highlighted a chilling scene from Jordan Peele‘s 2017 film, *Get Out*. The audience responded with laughter and gasps as he dissected the techniques used to create tension and fear in cinema. Attendees paid $35 for this unique experience, a testament to the growing popularity of academic discussions held in informal settings.

Innovative Learning Experiences

The success of *Lectures on Tap* stems from its founders, wife-and-husband duo Felecia and Ty Freely, who launched the series after moving from New York City to Los Angeles. Inspired by their desire to foster a community of intellectually curious individuals, they have successfully created a space where academic lectures are accessible without the pressure of grading. “I hunted for these tickets,” shared Noa Kretchmer, a frequent attendee. “They sell out within less than an hour.”

The series, which also operates in cities like San Francisco, Boston, and Chicago, allows experts to present diverse topics ranging from psychology to the implications of artificial intelligence, all within a relaxed environment. “At the end of every lecture, people approach us to express their enjoyment of learning in this casual setting,” Felecia noted. “They appreciate the opportunity to engage with experts without the stress of traditional academia.”

A Growing Cultural Phenomenon

As educational institutions face increasing scrutiny and challenges, events like *Lectures on Tap* are becoming vital for those seeking intellectual engagement. The Freelys emphasized the need for spaces that celebrate knowledge, especially in an era where trust in experts is waning. “We are passionate about keeping intellectualism alive,” Felecia said. “This is a way for people to engage with ideas they care about.”

During McClellan’s presentation, he employed various film clips to illustrate key concepts, effectively making complex ideas accessible to a diverse audience. Attendees, some seasoned film enthusiasts and others simply curious, found themselves immersed in a communal atmosphere. “It felt more like a social gathering than a lecture, and I loved that,” said Andrew Guerrero, a 26-year-old attendee.

The relaxed setting not only benefitted the audience but also allowed presenters like McClellan to engage more freely. “I can experiment with different elements that I might not use in a formal classroom,” he said, enjoying the informal exchanges that often arise in such environments.

As the evening concluded, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement, with many participants lingering to discuss the lecture over drinks. McClellan, too, remained, ready to answer questions and share insights in a less formal context. “This is a nontraditional environment to enjoy learning,” he remarked, reflecting on the innovative approach to education that *Lectures on Tap* embodies.

With the success of this series, it is clear that the combination of intellectual curiosity and social interaction is resonating with audiences. As the demand for tickets continues to soar, the Freelys are likely to expand their vision further, providing more opportunities for communities to engage with knowledge in enjoyable and accessible ways.