In an unexpected turn of events, a Chicago elementary school has decided to cancel its collaboration on a haunted house titled “The Room: A Journey To Hell” after discovering that the event’s organizers intended to include recreations of tragic incidents, including the Pulse Nightclub shooting that occurred in June.
Fernwood Elementary had initially agreed to co-host the haunted house with Tyrone Tappler Productions. However, it was only when promotional materials for the event surfaced that the school became aware of the planned depictions, which also included a dramatization of a botched abortion and the Charleston church shooting.
Michael Passman, a spokesperson for Chicago Public Schools (CPS), remarked to the Windy City Times that the organizers had misrepresented the nature of the event and that CPS did not authorize any association with the disturbing content now advertised. Consequently, the event will not take place on CPS property.
Questions Raised
This situation raises several questions about the appropriateness of a “Christian haunted house” within a public school setting. Firstly, one must wonder what a public institution was doing hosting a religious-themed haunted house. Was there any expectation that such an event could be non-controversial? It’s hard to imagine a scenario that wouldn’t offend someone.
Secondly, did the school genuinely believe that a “Christian haunted house” would be free of sensitive or offensive content? Perhaps they envisioned a light-hearted approach, such as a whimsical Noah inviting guests onto an ark filled with playful animals. But in reality, there was no version of this that could have been acceptable.
Moreover, how did the school remain unaware of the event’s content until just days before it was set to occur? Even for a regular haunted house, one would think there should be oversight regarding what is presented to children. While it’s not entirely fair to place blame on the school, one has to question how such a lapse could happen.
Organizer’s Intentions
Tyrone Tappler, the self-proclaimed minister behind the production, seemed to have been quite clear about his intentions. His Facebook post back in August called for volunteers, mentioning “Club Pulse, Dancers, Victims… CAGED PEOPLE/SCREAMERS.” It raises eyebrows that he thought this would be suitable for an elementary school audience.
On the ticket sales page for the event, “The Room” was described as a real-life haunted house experience, promising “IN YOUR FACE scenes of dark reality.” It was framed as a journey through moral choices, but the inclusion of a tragedy like the Pulse Nightclub shooting—where 49 lives were lost—suggested an insensitive attempt to portray a message about sin and salvation.
Let’s be clear: being gay is not a choice or a sin, and anyone suggesting otherwise is simply misguided.
Backlash and Response
Tappler’s response to the backlash has only drawn more ire, as many have taken to social media to voice their disapproval. If he sought attention, he certainly achieved it, albeit in a highly negative light.
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Conclusion
In summary, the decision by Fernwood Elementary School to withdraw from the haunted house collaboration highlights the importance of understanding the implications of event content, especially when it involves sensitive topics. It raises questions about the appropriateness of combining public education with religious themes, especially when they can lead to controversy.