Get ready to have a scary good time, Bulldogs!

The Kearney High School Theatre program is hosting a Halloween-themed “Haunted Wonderland” from 5 to 9 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 18, at the school. There will also be traditional door-to-door trick-or-treating through the high school hallways from 5 to 7 p.m. that same evening.

Both events are open to the public and appropriate for children of all ages. Entry for the haunted house will be $4 for the first entry and $1 for every re-entry. Both cash and cards will be accepted for payment at the door. The trick-or-treating is free for students.

The “Haunted Wonderland” was organized by the cast of the upcoming KHS fall production of the musical “Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” as a way to both create a fun community event for Halloween and help raise money for the Theatre program.

About three dozen KHS students will be involved in planning, preparing and performing in the haunted house. Program Director Haley Kernes also observed that this was a Real World Learning experience for her students.

“This is a great way to support the fall musical,” Ms. Kernes said. “It’s also an opportunity for the kids to learn new skills while providing a fun, seasonal activity for families in our community.”

The haunted house will wind its way from the main KHS entrance, around the recently renovated auditorium and through the performing arts wing of the school. Kernes emphasized that the event will be family-friendly, with absolutely no contact from the performers.

“Roald Dahl’s Charlie And The Chocolate Factory” will be performed on Nov. 4-6 and Nov. 8 at the high school. Information and tickets are available through the Theatre Department's online box office.

The KHS FFA will be handing out candy in the KHS hallways during the traditional door-to-door trick-or-treating. Club Advisor Erica Hart organized this as both a fun and free community event.

“We want this to be something that all of our families can enjoy as a community service,” Mrs. Hart said. “We’re also excited to spark some interest in our future KHS Bulldogs!”