![(Above) Right here on the LHPS campus, eerie feelings have emerged when students and staff have walked alone in Highland House, where students come to attend classes in the traditional and digital arts. Highland House was originally a family home, built in the late 1940s or early 1950s. After Orlando Junior College purchased the land, it was used as offices but, “Retained a ‘house’ layout,” states Dr. Brenda Walton. She also said that by the 1970s, the land became a part of Lake Highland with various purposes, including hosting home economics, science, and yearbook classes as well as a space for faculty to host holiday parties. By the 2000s, it became the arts building. However, with a long history comes troublesome events, including the deaths of many people around the property. Ms. Ginger Bryant, states that although she doesn’t believe in ghosts, she has, “Seen things in that building that [she is] not able to explain with any sort of scientific backing.” Other administrators and students have relayed similar sentiments, stating that they feel some sort of presence or negative energy when passing by the building.](https://twicetoldtale.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/IMG-2310-1200x408.jpg)
(Above) Right before hitting the stage, the cast of Chicago formed a circle in the middle of the theatre. They participated in group activities, sang and danced, that not only warmed up their vocal cords, but also pepped each other up, and let all of their nerves out. Different cast members took turns going into the center of the circle and leading the group, like “Follow the Leader.” Sophia-Bella Carrasquillo, class of 2023, is pictured doing an iconic Chicago pose, getting into the feel of Velma Kelly, while her castmates repeat it back to her.
Chicago—an iconic American jazz musical—surrounds Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly, entertainers in Chicago, Illinois, who were accused of murder during the roaring 1920s. Known for its catchy songs and dance numbers, intricate choreography, and scandalous plot, the musical explores the ideas of celebrity and corruption in the American justice system. Lake Highland Preparatory School’s Arts Department took on the production of Chicago for their spring 2023 performance, incorporating their jazz band, dance team, thespian troupe, and David Copperfield’s Project Magic. With months of hard work and preparation in areas such as stage-craft, costume design, and countless after-school rehearsals, LHP’s talented artists hit the big stage from March 29 to April 1, 2023, in the Harriett Coleman Center for the Arts. After creating a captivating performance last spring, students are anticipating this year’s fall musical, The Addams Family, School Edition.
