How to Survive Muni Mayhem

How to Survive Muni Mayhem

By J. Ryan Blesse

Muni’s gates have closed to give us a rest, now our ghouls have planned a new autumn fest! Let’s go inside for the spookiest sights, wander the maze and relive Muni nights. Wonka and Poppins, White Christmas and Grease, tossed in a cauldron and – oh, I should cease.

But something’s different… yes, something’s strange – you see they’ve had this mysterious change. Oh, dear, come along and don’t be so sad, come hold a hand really it’s not so bad. Friendly ghosts on stage to scare up a show, dancing and singing it won’t be so-so.

We are good (g)hosts here not just to say boo, that’s why we will have concessions for you. Come sit by the campfire when you are through, we think you’re going to want a s’more or two.

Sure, there are fiends but don’t worry ‘bout them, you can survive all this Muni Mayhem.  Follow our concierge’s tips below to have all the fun and none of the woe.

1. Step right up to the box office

To get a ticket, go to the box office where the friendly human(oid) will help you get to the Other Side. At this time, we are not accepting any new souls as a method of payment – we’re quite full, as you shall see – but we will accept your cash or credit/debit cards.

2. But do bring some cash

The ghosts and goblins running the concession stands and selling the s’mores kits do not know of “credit” and “debit.” They only know of two methods of payment: cash or souls. As we’ve stated, we are running amuck with souls as is, so please… do bring your cash.

3. Halloween costumes are encouraged

Don’t fret, mortals. The Other Side is fun! Come as you are, or come dressed as your favorite ghoul. We’d love to see what you might look like when you become a part of our little show…

4. Remember, mayhem is family friendly

We are rather frightful… and it’s no fun being scared when you’re alone! Lucky for you, we have activities for the whole family. Bring your friends, bring your family!

5. Bring something warm

Being the hospitable hosts we are, we wouldn’t want you to get a chill from the fall weather. Our vampires are especially concerned about you getting cold. Although we’ll have the fires fetched straight from the Other Side and hot coffee and chocolate to drink, please do bring a jacket, a blanket, or anything else you might need to keep you nice and toasty! We can chill you in other ways…

6. Don’t forget to tell your friends

Be sure to tell your friends where you are that night (that’s @springfieldmuni on Facebook, @TheSpfldMuni on Twitter, and @themuniopera on Instagram)… just in case. Many wayward souls have lost their way through the Haunted Maze – that’s how we got a haunted maze. The more, the merrier, as they say.

A show, a maze, and some other good frights, you get all this for $10 a night!

October 26, 27 & 28 from 7 p.m. – 10 p.m. Sponsored by the Landmark Automotive Group.

 “Muni Mayhem’s Mainstage Massacre”

Frightful performances of song and dance runs four times a night so don’t miss your chance!

7:15-7:45pm, 8:00-8:30pm, 8:45-9:15pm, & 9:30-10:00pm.

Haunted Maze

Beware of the haunts as the name suggests, our maze is open to all honored guests. Please wander the trail as much as you want, but don’t get lost else you be our next haunt!

Other Mayhem Buy popcorn and soda, Muni dogs too, coffee, or a hot chocolate or two. Gather round the campfires beyond the gates with s’mores kits on sale!

 

About J. Ryan Blesse 

Aside from being a talented audience member, J. Ryan Blesse is the author of dark, horror, and speculative fiction, usually with a twist of humor. He maintains a blog that he updates weekly with writing tips and writing prompts (and sometimes other stuff). He lives in Springfield, Illinois with his husband Craig, their very hairy children Grizabella and Boots, and an oversized unicorn pool float named Melinda. Read his blog at www.jryanblesse.com/blog or follow him on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @jryanblesse.

About The Muni

The Springfield Municipal Opera (The Muni) is a not-for-profit theatrical organization that has become a Springfield summer tradition, providing the best of Broadway to enthusiastic audiences for more than 50 years. Located at 815 East Lake Drive in an outdoor amphitheater, The Muni is one of the largest all-volunteer community theatre organizations in the nation. For more information on The Muni, please visit www.TheMuni.org.