Boulder High’s Haunted House Dives Into Underwater Thrills

Boulder High School is transforming into a chilling underwater adventure this Halloween season with its haunted house, titled “Shipwreck of Souls.” The attraction promises thrills and frights as visitors encounter a variety of eerie sea creatures and haunted shipwrecks. Running from October 31 through the weekend, this year’s production showcases the creative talents of students who have dedicated time and effort to bring their vision to life.

Under the direction of students like Mads Cass, a junior, the haunted house has become an annual tradition that allows participants to express their creativity. “You can tell that a lot of work and a lot of love was put into it,” Cass noted, emphasizing the collaborative effort behind the project.

Underwater Horrors Await Visitors

The theme for this year’s haunted house features a narrative centered around the ocean, complete with tales of mythical creatures like the Kraken and sirens. Technical director Paul Mealey, who has a history with the production as a former actor, describes the project as “student-run, adult-supervised.” He reminds the cast that while the aim is to scare, the primary goal is to ensure everyone enjoys the experience. “The goal is just to make smiles happen — and some screams,” Mealey said.

For the production, students choose a different theme each year, ensuring returning guests experience something new. Senior Scarlett Caste, co-director of the haunted house, stated, “Every single year, it is a completely different experience. Truly, it never feels the same.” This year, the concept was inspired by Caste’s personal fears. “I’m terrified of fish,” she admitted.

Guests will board a sunken cruise ship set in the 1920s, exploring themed rooms that reflect the era, including a casino and ballroom. To create an immersive atmosphere, students have constructed props such as barnacles, seaweed, and tentacles, transforming the school hallways into a convincing underwater wreckage. One room features a tilted, padded floor designed to create a “seasick” effect for visitors.

Experience the Frights from October 31

As visitors navigate through the haunted ship, they will encounter actors dressed as grotesque sea creatures, complete with realistic makeup and props. According to senior Odalis Torres, head of the makeup team, “There’s blood in everything. Nothing in the haunted house has not been touched by blood.”

The production has seen varied reactions from attendees. Senior Darin Williams, who played a role last year and returns as a bartender in the ship’s speakeasy, noted that some guests scream while others attempt to maintain a straight face despite being frightened. “You can tell they’re still scared,” he said.

The haunted house will operate from 19:00 to 22:00 on Saturday and from 18:00 to 21:00 on October 31. An earlier “lights on” version will also be available on Saturday for those seeking a less intense experience. Tickets can be purchased online at tinyurl.com/3ktx638r or at the door. Proceeds from the event will support the Boulder High theater department, ensuring that this beloved tradition continues to thrive.