Visitors to Boulder High School this Halloween season can expect a thrilling experience as the theater department unveils its latest haunted house, “Shipwreck of Souls.” Set to run from October 31, 2023, the haunted house invites guests to brave the depths of the ocean where they may encounter mythical creatures and eerie shipwrecks.
Mads Cass, a junior and co-director of the haunted house, emphasized the dedication that has gone into the project. “You can tell that a lot of work and a lot of love was put into it,” he stated. The haunted house is a collaborative effort, featuring around 40 student actors who also contribute to the technical aspects, ensuring a fully immersive experience.
Student Creativity Takes Center Stage
Technical director Paul Mealey, who once participated in the haunted house as a student, described the initiative as “student-run, adult-supervised.” He highlighted the importance of balancing scares with fun, reminding the young creators that audiences come not only for the frights but also for enjoyment. “The goal is just to make smiles happen — and some screams,” Mealey said.
Each year, the students select a new theme, ensuring that returning visitors encounter a fresh experience. Senior and co-director Scarlett Caste shared that the haunted house is designed to feel entirely different each year. “Every single year, it is a completely different experience,” she said. This year’s theme was inspired by Caste’s personal fear of fish, which adds a unique twist to the narrative.
The storyline transports visitors back to the 1920s, where they board a sunken cruise ship and explore various themed rooms, including a casino and a ballroom, all filled with chilling surprises.
A Deep Dive into the Details
To create an authentic underwater atmosphere, students have constructed elaborate sets featuring barnacles, tentacles, and seaweed. One room even has a tilted and padded floor to simulate a “seasick” sensation as guests walk through.
As guests navigate the haunted ship, they will hear the sounds of crashing waves alongside music from the era. Actors dressed as grotesque sea creatures enhance the ambiance, with detailed makeup that includes gel for wet hair and fake blood for added effect. “There’s blood in everything,” said makeup head Odalis Torres, a junior.
The haunted house has garnered a variety of reactions from visitors in previous years. Darin Williams, who played a bloody rabbit in last year’s production, is now serving as a bartender in the ship’s speakeasy. He noted the mixed responses from guests: some scream in terror, while others manage to keep a straight face despite their fear.
“Shipwreck of Souls” will operate from 19:00 to 22:00 on Saturday, October 31, and from 18:00 to 21:00 on Thursday and Halloween night. For those looking for a less intense experience, a “lights on” version will be available at 18:00 on Saturday. Tickets can be purchased at tinyurl.com/3ktx638r or at the door, with proceeds supporting the Boulder High theater department.
This initiative not only showcases the creativity and hard work of the students but also serves as a community event that brings together local families for a memorable Halloween experience.
