Spirits, psychics and supernatural fun at Barrow’s Intense

As summer faded into fall, the supernatural took center stage at Barrow’s Intense NY Tasting Room with Spirited Away: Psychic & Paranormal Night.

The evening blended psychic readings, craft cocktails and paranormal-themed entertainment. Hosted by psychic reader Jessica Harris, who goes by The Oracle, the September 8 event invited attendees to explore the mysterious and otherworldly.

Conversations buzzed throughout the space while overhead music set the mood. The evening featured a range of experiences, from aura photography to tarot readings that brought the event’s supernatural theme to life.

Alex Haskell, general manager of Barrow’s, has been involved with the Industry City venue since 2021. The idea for the event dates back to that era, when Haskell and his colleagues wanted to create something for people looking for a reason to get out.

“It was during the pandemic and we wanted to do something that was fun,” Haskell said.

The event began with three or four psychic readers and has since grown to 18 practitioners, reflecting its expanding audience and lineup.

For Haskell, however, the event’s purpose goes beyond its entertainment value.

“People feel purposeful, on a deeper level, all-out connection,” he said. “This is a way guests can connect with the community and the universe at large.”

The mystery of Spirited Away ultimately comes to life through practitioners like Harris, who invite attendees to explore the unknown.

Her work at Spirited Away also goes beyond psychic readings. Harris said part of her role is creating an atmosphere that encourages people to let down their guard.

“A big part of my job besides my psychic ability is to be a fun presence at a party,” she said. “Being dressed in a way [that feels like] costume makes people more vulnerable. They open up to you.”

Harris said the experience can become transformative because readings engage people on sensory, physical, emotional and conceptual levels. The personal nature of the readings, she explained, can make the experience feel almost therapeutic within the nightlife setting.

For attendees, Harris hopes the experience ultimately leaves them with something beyond the reading itself. She said she hopes they gain “clarity” and a broader perspective.

While the practitioners help create the evening’s sense of mystery, the experience ultimately belongs to the people who walk through the door. Spirited Away offers attendees a chance to explore the unknown, satisfy their curiosity and connect with others along the way.

For some, the appeal can be as simple as discovering a space that aligns with their interests. Angie M. said she came to the event through a friend’s recommendation. “Since I’m into spirituality, this is the place to be,” she said.

As Spirited Away brings together readers, psychics and curious attendees for an evening of connection and exploration, the event also reflects Barrow’s broader role as a space for cultural and community gatherings in Brooklyn. For those looking to continue exploring divination and intuitive practices, Barrow’s, 86 34th St., Building 6, will host a free Divination Exchange Party on Thursday, October 1 at 7 p.m., inviting readers who practice tarot or other intuitive readings to take part.