Where Tampa’s Legend Becomes Its Legacy
Gaspar’s Lair is an immersive, pirate-inspired arts experience in the heart of Tampa—built to turn our city’s favorite legend into a living, breathing destination. Join us as a founding donor or step into the inner circle for first-in-line access to what comes next. Premiere: January 2027
Ghost Cat is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, and contributions are tax-deductible for federal income tax purposes
What Is Gaspar’s Lair?
Gaspar’s Lair is a large-scale immersive production inspired by the legend of José Gaspar, Tampa’s vibrant arts scene, and the unmistakable energy of Gasparilla.
Part theatrical adventure, part art installation, and part living story world, the Lair is being designed as:
- A year-round attraction that brings visitors back beyond parade season
- A platform for local artists, performers, and technologists
- A new cultural anchor that feels unmistakably “Tampa”
We’re building something that doesn’t just entertain. It creates a sense of place, pride, and possibility.
World Premiere January 2027
Tampa, FL
Gaspar’s Lair fuses movement, theatre, multimedia design, and storytelling into a mesmerizing immersive experience. With full freedom to explore, audience “mates”, move through intersecting storylines and richly detailed sets, shaping their own adventure each time they return.
Aboard Gaspar’s reimagined ship, mates lose themselves in a night of mystery, revelry, and rebellion. From the intimacy of his private quarters to the chaos on deck, guests roam freely through a world where history, theatre, and myth collide.
No two voyages are ever the same.
Be Part Of The Legacy
Tampa has the talent, the tourists, and the legend. What it doesn’t have, yet, is a signature immersive attraction that ties it all together.
As a donor, you help:
- Fund local artists and makers who design sets, sound, costumes, and interactive moments
- Pilot the first phases of the Lair: prototypes, pop-ups, and early experiences
- Lay the groundwork for a permanent installation that can welcome visitors year after year
Every gift, from seed support to major donations, moves Gaspar’s Lair from concept to reality and proves that bold, artist-led experiences belong at the center of Tampa’s story.
Become a Founding Donor of Gaspar’s Lair
We’re inviting an early circle of donors who believe in the power of story, spectacle, and local talent to transform a city. As a founding donor, you may receive:
- Early access to concept reveals and prototypes
- Invitations to private salons and behind-the-scenes events
- Recognition as an early supporter in donor materials and select spaces
- Opportunities to directly support artists, performers, and specific elements of the Lair
Share your information and we’ll follow up personally to match your goals with the right level of support.
Join The Crew
First to Know. First to Enter.
Not ready to become a donor yet but want to be the first to know what’s coming?
Our exclusive mailing list is for people who want to stay close to the story as it’s being written. Inner circle members will:
⚓︎ Hear major announcements first
⚓︎ Get early looks at concept art, storylines, and designs
⚓︎ Receive first-in-line access to pop-up events, previews, and limited-capacity experiences
⚓︎ Be invited to select community workshops and conversations as the project takes shape
Meet The Makers
Made by Artists, Built for Tampa.
Created and produced by Tampa-based Christina Acosta and New York City-based Amanda Szeglowski, Co-Directors of Ghost Cat, Gaspar’s Lair is crafted by a collective of artists, designers, performers, and storytellers who believe Tampa is ready for something bold and supported by key partnerships to bring to life this immersive experience.
Board of Directors
Christina Acosta
Shiloh Johnson
Jennette Maxwell
Amanda Szeglowski
Pablo Aviles
Maria Juan
Kiah Wilson
Advisory Board
Nadine Fahim
Kristin Hemphill
Carmen Griffin
Paula Schuyler
Want to join as a key partner?
Reach Out to our team to join the leadership crew.
Step Into The Story
Help Tampa Claim The Iconic Experience It Deserves
Gaspar’s Lair is more than an idea. It’s a chance to define Tampa’s next cultural landmark. Whether you’re ready to support as a donor or simply want to be first in line when the doors open, there’s a place for you in this legend.
