Around this time every year—when the first hints of summer waning into Autumnal rust begin—a rustle in the air fills the heart of every creature of the night statewide with anticipation: The annual Denver Goth Prom is upon us once again.

With its ninth iteration being held this year at Reelworks on August 16th, Desiree Albee (owner of Albee Damned Productions) has helped keep the world of goth and industrial music (un)alive in the Mile-High City for the last decade by featuring artists like Aurelio Voltaire, Nitzer Ebb, and My Life With The Thrill Kill Kult at various venues thorough the metropolis.

But to say that Denver’s Goth Prom is just a great concert would be shortchanging the scope of everything this festival has to offer.

From a goth DJ proposing to their girlfriend on stage during a prom from the past, to being literally sent to Hell for this year’s offering, the recent interview I had with Albee covered every facet of this annual event. Most importantly, I wanted to know the impact this event has had on the past, present, and upcoming future of Colorado’s alternative community.

“Goth Prom is more than just a show; it’s a community ritual. It’s a night where you don’t have to explain yourself or hide parts of who you are. There’s no ‘cool crowd’ or popularity contest.” She continued, “Whether you come solo or with friends, it’s about feeling safe, celebrated, and seen. Plus, we work hard to uplift local DJs, promoters, artists, vendors, and performers, so the whole event is a love letter to the Colorado alt scene.”

When you look at the FULL lineup of performers scheduled for the 2025 prom, it’s clear that Albee and promoter AJ Ritual (Ritual Noize Entertainment) truly love the alt community of the Centennial State.

Sure, it’s easy to understand why Clan Of Xymox was selected to headline; goth legends with four decades of history behind them. When I asked Albee the reason for adding Curse Mackey to the show, she made it clear that he is “another icon whose music perfectly aligns with the vibe of Goth Prom. Both artists not only represent different corners of the goth/industrial soundscape, but also resonate deeply with our crowd.”

She said that musically speaking, there will also be “a rotating lineup of local and national DJs from the goth, industrial, and darkwave scenes, helping to keep the energy strong across multiple rooms and stages.” And when Albee explained the thematic setting she has in store, I couldn’t imagine a better soundtrack.

“Hell/The Underworld; it will be a fully immersive experience. Everything from the decor to the performances to the themed drinks will reflect that theatrical concept. Each piece, including several props I created myself, helps shape the environment and bring the theme to life. It’s really about how all the visual and atmospheric elements come together to transform the venue into an unforgettable experience.”

Another “must-see” at the prom is a fan-favorite fixture: Goth Royalty. Said Albee, “One of the most special moments of the night is the crowning of Goth Prom Royalty. It’s a tradition that really speaks to what this event is all about—inclusivity, celebration, and community.” She says this is achieved by not using “titles like ‘King’ or ‘Queen.’ We want the moment to feel inclusive and welcoming to all gender identities. The winners are crowned on stage with custom crowns made by a different local artist each year, which gives us a chance to support and spotlight creatives in the community.”

Albee stresses that this inclusivity extends to every single attendee, with them being given a ticket for a random drawing at the end of the night. “That means anyone can win! It’s not a popularity contest. Everyone has an equal shot.”

But win or lose, an unforgettable experience is guaranteed regardless.

In the past, prom-goers have seen “a DJ proposing to his girlfriend on stage. It’s not something we normally allow—Goth Prom is about creating a space for the whole community, and we want to make sure no one feels uncomfortable or like the night is being centered around one person—but in that unique case, it felt right, and it was really special to witness.”

With the magnitude of the 2025 Prom seeming to carry the same weight as the Ghost of Proms Past, I cannot see it failing to provide a similarly memorable happening at some point during the night.

When I asked if there were any final words, Albee’s answer was emphatic. “If you’ve ever wanted to be part of a hauntingly memorable night, where you’re surrounded by a sea of lace, leather, and other beautiful dark souls, Goth Prom is your night.”

Tickets are available now through Ritual Noize’s online platforms, and hard tickets can be picked up at FashioNation.