The Haunted Woods is Londonderry Drama club’s annual fall production where they guide tours through the town commons and have scare actors perform different skits created by members of drama club.
“It’s just another way to give back to the community here in town,” drama club producer and information technology specialist Ryan Barrett said. “My favorite part is seeing the community coming out and enjoying an annual fall activity we do for them.”
The woods offer a great experience for cast members and guests alike.
“This year marks my fourth year doing Haunted Woods,” senior Madison Tufts said. “I’ve been involved in this event since freshman year. Since sophomore year I have been a tour guide and freshman year I was a part of a skit. Each year is different and always so much fun.”
The Haunted Woods doesn’t just include the tour through the Town Commons but also the Goblin Garden which offers games and crafts for younger kids to enjoy which is run by drama club Music Director Danielle Loschiavo along with some cast members.
“I really love when the little ones come all dressed in costume and they’re so excited to be there and their families all look like they’re having a great time,” Loschiavo said. “Some of the really little ones will do both the Goblin Garden and the Haunted Woods. They’re not afraid of anything. They’re more brave than me.”
The Haunted Woods is student run and students have full creative control over the skits.
“I really love to see the students’ growth,” Loschiavo said. “They come up with their own ideas for the skits. They come up with some really thoughtful things. The scarers, the tour guides, the ones helping out with Goblin Garden, and the students that are directing and working on music. It’s just a really big team effort. It’s a successful fundraiser but it’s a fun fundraiser.”
With every production of this nature, there are bound to be some difficulties faced.
“The hardest part anytime we do the Haunted Woods is the weather and getting things set up,” Barrett said, “especially in the fall it rains a lot and can be cold out.”
The Haunted Woods brings a lot of fun to the Londonderry community and can inspire future high schoolers to help out.
“I wanted to join Haunted Woods since I grew up going to it and looked up to the high schoolers at a young age. I thought it was so cool I finally got the opportunity to be involved,” Tufts said. “Haunted Woods is an event I hold close to my heart. Every year I love the spooky vibe and chilly weather. It’s a great start to October and I love meeting new people in the community.”
