Join the East Central College Theatre Department on campus next week for a chilling theatrical experience featuring storytelling and surprises.

Tales from the Shadows is a unique outdoor event that includes a journey around campus led by a “Ghoul Guide.” Tickets are on sale now for the Halloween-themed performance scheduled for Oct. 28-30.

According to ECC Theatre Director Grace Austin, plans for Tales from the Shadows spawned from the desire for an interactive event on campus.

“It came out of an idea for people to see more of the campus while at the same time being able to participate in an immersive event, which is new to the department,” she said.

There will be walking tours of up to 10 people that will depart every 15 minutes beginning at 6:30 p.m. each night. The tours are designed for social distancing and face masks will be required.

To purchase tickets visit www.ecctheatre.com or call the ECC Box Office at 636-584-6693. This activity is recommended for ages 13 and up.

During the event, tour guides will lead guests around campus to several stops where they will encounter strange mysteries, scary creatures, and a few surprises along the way.

Each tour lasts approximately 70 minutes, and it will include students as actors and guides.

Austin noted that she and colleagues Bess Moynihan and Sylvia Sellers, developed the Tales from the Shadows concept while discussing options for a Halloween production.

Bess, Sylvia, and I were tossing around some ideas for Halloween and we came up with a concept of hiring some master storytellers from St. Louis to work with the students to create a walking tour,” Austin added.

On hand for the “Tales from the Shadows” will be Hazel’s Back Porch BBQ, Montelle Winery, Sweet Kettle Corn Co., Happy Apples, S’mores, and more for ticket holders before and after the tours.