Believing prom costs have risen beyond reason, BHS returns to gym

BELMONT — A prom at a swank location might be nice but if that location requires a matching price tag, excluding some students in the process, is it the best strategy? With that question in mind, organizers of the Belmont High School prom decided to change course this year and host the annual rite of passage in the school's gymnasium, slashing admission price in half while continuing to offer what they hope is an evening to remember.

Event producer BJ Eckardt, who is volunteering her services for the effort, said that last year the prom was held on the M/S Mount Washington and about 130 tickets were sold at $60 each. However, considering the cost of a dress or renting a tuxedo, floral and other expenses, she said the ticket price is only the beginning of the evening's costs. "It beomes very expensive," she said.

That's why this year, at the behest of Principal Russ Holden, the prom is being held on campus.

Laura Lavallee, junior class adviser, said she was initially "cool to leukwarm" about the change. Students seemed to feel the same and ticket sales were tepid the first week. Since then, however, students have warmed to the idea, thanks to $30 tickets, and Lavallee said the most affordable prom she can recall has sold more tickets than she has ever seen, about 200.

The prom, with the theme "Lost in Las Vegas," will start at 7 p.m. on the evening of Saturday, June 4. The grand march will begin an hour earlier.

"The price, I think, is the key," Lavallee said.

According to Eckardt, "Everyone in the community chipped in to help" in the effort to provide a fun, affordable prom. Presenting sponsor Eptam Plastics, with help from Belmont Rotary Club, underwrote many expenses. Lakes Region Coca-Cola donated beverages, Shaw's and Staples contributed and several other parties played a part. Annie's Cafe and Catering of Laconia is providing the dinner and appetizers for what Eckardt said is "a fabulous price."

In keeping with the "Las Vegas" theme, the Lodge at Belmont has loaned gaming tables and teachers are volunteering to play the role of dealers. Each student will receive 10 chips to play with and the luckiest students will be able to redeem their winnings for prizes.

"It's going to be a good, old-fashioned prom in the high school," said Eckardt, who promised that students won't recognize the gymnasium when they first step in.

"We just wanted to show that we want everyone who wants to go to prom to be able to go to prom," said Lavallee.