The skate event season might be winding down, but Palace injected some serious energy back into the scene with the unannounced premiere of their new video, Beta Blockers, at the Angelika Film Center in SoHo. This wasn’t just another premiere; it was an intimate gathering in a swanky, historic theater, complete with a pro part from Shawn Powers and an after-party at a classic SoHo dive bar. It was a Tuesday night that truly felt special.
The premiere’s atmosphere was a unique mix of excitement and casual camaraderie. While the video itself boasts a solid 40-minute runtime, the event felt surprisingly intimate, a welcome change from the usual large-scale skate gatherings.
One of the highlights of the night was witnessing the crowd’s reaction to the video, especially during Jahmir Brown’s scenes.
Adding to the night’s playful vibe, a “No Photography” sign sparked some humorous moments. It’s a nod to the classic skate ethos of respecting the moment and the skaters, a reminder to be present and not always behind a lens.
The event also saw the return of familiar faces, including Beatrice Domond, who seemed to be enjoying a well-deserved break after her pro-shoe release. The relaxed atmosphere was a perfect contrast to the energy of the skate scene.
A true blast from the past, Leo Fitzpatrick, known for his role as Telly in the iconic film Kids, made an appearance, delighting those who grew up in the 90s skate scene. His presence added a touch of nostalgia to the event.
The night’s energy also included a moment of Father Bop and his ever-present acoustic guitar, adding an element of chaotic fun to the evening.
The crowd’s diverse mix of personalities added to the eclectic feeling of the premiere. From seasoned skaters to industry insiders, it was a convergence of the many facets of skateboarding.
Shawn Powers was undoubtedly a star of the night, celebrating his pro part and even signing pro boards featuring his own artwork, a moment that highlighted his versatility as both a skater and an artist.
The after-party at the SoHo dive bar included a classic bar game: darts. Danny Brady’s impressive accuracy added an element of competition to the relaxed after-party setting.
Kanin Garner’s appearance, swapping his security uniform for a Palace jersey, showed off his unique style and added to the premiere’s overall coolness.
Father Bop’s vintage Harry Potter tee, combined with fresh Air Maxes, demonstrated his undeniable sense of style. His fit was so on point, it was clear he was a force to be reckoned with that night.
The after-party also included a game of pool, with high stakes and a casual atmosphere, adding another layer of entertainment to the night.
The night culminated with Pat Hoblin perfectly balancing business and pleasure, a testament to the dual nature of the skate industry.
And lastly, Noah showed off his unique skills, perhaps inspired by the infamous NYC bike rider who balances random objects, completing the night with a dose of street-style artistry.
The Palace Beta Blockers premiere was more than just a video launch; it was a celebration of skate culture, style, and community. From the intimate theater setting to the lively after-party, the night showcased the unique spirit of skateboarding.
Words by: Ben Komins
Photos by: Marco Hernandez & Wilson Lucas
