In order to raise money for an upcoming trip to Disney World, Railaires hosted a Halloween Gala for the Newton community on the night of Oct. 30. Students helped run the event that was hosted from 7 p.m. – 10 p.m. in Willis gym. Throughout the event, there was live music, refreshments, costume contests, food and a silent auction. Adult admission was $20 where student admission was $15. The cost to purchase an entire table at the event was $150. 

Throughout the night there were celebrity judges, many awards and numerous performances from NHS students and alumni. Multiple students sang various songs to entertain the guests.

“This is my second year as a Railaire,” junior Jenna Teichler said. “We have never hosted an event like this, so I [couldn’t] wait to see what the turnout was. I think it’s a really great idea [because] it’s a great way to raise money for the choirs, but it also is the perfect social event to bring the school and community together.”

If this year’s event is a success, the Railaires hope to make it an annual event and host it every year for years to come. Railaire junior Adella Lymer, predicted the event was going to be an exciting time for everyone who attended, and she hoped that a large number of people would attend and have a fun time. 

“I think [the fundraising event] is a great idea because it’s fun for not only students but for parents as well. It provides a fun thing for students and parents to do for Halloween,” Lymer said.

The Railaires were prompted to put on the event by a parent who had successful experiences with a similar fundraiser in another district. In many ways the event was similar to the usual Pops and Jazz performances, but with the addition of a silent auction and dancing. The group will offer dancing lessons in the future so that attendees can dance while the jazz band performs and overall bring more cohesion to the event.

“Live entertainment [was] happening all night. A dance floor was available while the jazz band performed and in between acts. We [had] food available and a silent auction for some very nice items. We had a parent that moved here from Texas, and their choir and jazz band always did a fundraiser similar to this every year. It was similar to our Pops and Jazz we normally do,” Choir teacher Amy Ives said. 

Since the function is entirely supported by the students, a portion of the proceeds will go directly to their Disney Trip fund. In total $1,100 per student will need to be raised in order to make their trip possible. Many parents of choir students, as well as the Tri-M music club, are contributing to the success of this event.

“I think this gives a safe and fun place for the community and students to dress up in costumes, eat fun food and just have a great time,” Ives said.