While film screenings dominate daylight hours at the Sundance Film Festival, the true nocturnal pulse beats in exclusive venues like TAO Park City. This iconic VIP nightclub pop-up recently concluded its final weekend in Utah's Deer Valley, marking the end of an era before its anticipated relocation to Boulder, Colorado, for the 2027 festival and beyond. For a quarter-century, TAO Park City has served as the premier after-hours destination where cinema's elite and music's brightest stars converge in celebration of independent film and creative expression. The farewell celebration drew an impressive constellation of celebrities, musicians, and industry insiders, all gathering to witness history in the making while creating one last round of indelible memories.
The whispers began early in the evening, with speculation reaching fever pitch about potential surprise appearances. Much of the buzz centered on Charli xcx, the boundary-pushing pop sensation celebrating three film premieres in the official Sundance selection: "The Moment," "I Want Your Sex," and "The Gallerist." While the "Brat" energy she embodies was present, the artist herself didn't materialize, yet the anticipation set the stage for an evening where anything felt possible.
The night's centerpiece proved even more electrifying than any rumored appearance. Benson Boone, the red-hot pop star whose meteoric rise has captivated the music industry, made an entrance that immediately became legendary. His arrival in a gleaming Lamborghini announced this would be no ordinary performance. As the clock struck 1:20 a.m., Boone ascended the stage and transformed the intimate venue into his personal arena. The crowd's reaction was instantaneous and visceral, with actress Nina Dobrev leading the charge. According to eyewitnesses, Dobrev "went wild" as Boone's powerful vocals filled the space, particularly during his emotional rendition of "Beautiful Things." Her unbridled enthusiasm captured TAO's magic—a place where Hollywood's A-list can shed public personas and simply be music fans.
Joining Dobrev in this impromptu choir were Maude Apatow and Zoey Deutch, both singing along to every word with genuine passion that can't be manufactured. Deutch, accompanied by her fiancé and Sundance veteran Jimmy Tatro, embodied the event's spirit perfectly. Their presence highlighted how TAO has become a generational tradition for festival-connected creatives. The performance reached its zenith when Boone executed his signature backflip off the main platform—a breathtaking display of athleticism and showmanship that had the entire room erupting in cheers. This daring move, now his trademark, symbolized the risk-taking creativity both Sundance and TAO celebrate.
The musical journey didn't end with Boone's set. Throughout the weekend, DJ Mel Debarge and DJ Vice commanded the turntables with masterful precision, crafting soundscapes that kept the dance floor packed until dawn. Their ability to read the room—filled with industry executives, creative talents, and celebrities—demonstrated why they're among the most sought-after DJs for high-profile events. The venue itself participated in the farewell, with a massive LED screen flashing the provocative question "Boulder…?" This digital tease sparked countless conversations about the future, even as guests immersed themselves in the present moment. The atmosphere was a unique blend of electric energy and wistful nostalgia, a bittersweet cocktail that defined the entire weekend.
The production value matched the extraordinary talent on display, with premium brand partnerships creating immersive experiences rather than mere sponsorships. Casamigos returned as the exclusive tequila partner, featuring an elaborate ice luge and ski lodge installation that became one of the night's most Instagrammed moments. Hendrick's Gin poured artisanal cocktails from a custom-built chalet, while Cîroc transformed their space into an athletic-themed winter wonderland complete with an interactive spin-the-wheel game. The spirits selection was rounded out by Jack Daniels, Moët Hennessy offering their prestigious V.S.O.P. and XO champagnes, and the perennially popular Whispering Angel rosé. For those seeking non-alcoholic options, Evian and Q Mixers provided sophisticated alternatives, while Heineken and Red Bull ensured the energy never flagged.
The guest list represented a cross-section of contemporary entertainment culture. Patrick Schwarzenegger made an appearance with manager Beau Swayze, while Daveed Diggs and Nicholas Braun brought their own distinctive charisma to the gathering. Music producer Austin Millz represented the behind-the-scenes talent that powers the industry. Reality television was well-represented by Real Housewives of Salt Lake City stars Bronwyn Newport, Whitney Rose, and Meredith Marks, who navigated the crowd with practiced ease. Adding a uniquely Utah flavor were The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives stars Miranda Hope and Layla Taylor, whose presence bridged the gap between local culture and the Hollywood invasion. This convergence of different entertainment spheres created a fascinating microcosm of modern media, all united in celebration.
Reflecting on this significant milestone, Noah Tepperberg, co-founder of TAO Group Hospitality, shared insights into the philosophy that made Park City such a success. "TAO Park City was built on the idea of doing something truly special, for the town, for our brand partners and for the community of people who support and frequent our venues throughout the year," Tepperberg explained. His statement reveals the deeper purpose behind the pop-up—a commitment to creating genuine value for all stakeholders. Looking toward the future, he embraced the inevitability of change: "As we look ahead, the experience will naturally evolve—Boulder brings a different energy and culture—but what remains constant is the momentum." This forward-thinking perspective acknowledges that while geography shifts, the core mission of fostering community and celebration remains unchanged. The 25-year Park City legacy serves as both foundation and inspiration for this next chapter.
As the final beats echoed through Deer Valley and the last champagne toasts were made, TAO Park City cemented its place in Sundance folklore. The farewell party wasn't merely an ending but a celebration of everything the venue represented: the intersection of film and music, the democratization of celebrity where stars become fans, and the creation of unforgettable moments in an intimate mountain setting. While Boulder awaits its turn to host this iconic pop-up, the memories of 25 years in Park City will continue to resonate through stories told by those who experienced its magic. The festival may be moving, but the spirit of TAO's midnight celebrations lives on.