‘The October Project 2’ to thrill, chill at James Clemens on Oct. 28

Preparing for “The October Project 2” on Oct. 28, a menacing clown (Devonte Vincent) frightens student directors Shiloh O’Neal, from left, Christian Arnsparger, Zachary Gilman, Lauren Parker, Jennifer Farner, Lexie Tubell, Orlando Williams, Brett Arias and Joseph Morris. Digital communications teacher Daniel Whitt photographs the publicity stunt. (CONTRIBUTED)

MADISON – What’s lurking in the shadows? “The October Project 2” on Oct. 28 may cause you to regret asking.

JetsPress and James Clemens High School Theatre have diabolically collaborated on this exhibition. Digital communications teacher Daniel Whitt promises more frights than in 2013.

Last year, “The October Project” debuted as “a horror suspense film exhibition featuring only work of Jets Press,” Whitt said. “This year, we’re taking it to a whole new level.”

Totaling 150 people, media and theatre students have partnered with fashion and design students, Zen Club and Randolph School’s filmmakers facilitated by Peter Townsend to create a full-on, two-hour horror experience.

The horror genre has 100-percent buy-in from students. “James Clemens’ goal is to provide students with unique and engaging opportunities that will guarantee interest and buy-in for learning,” Whitt said.

With “The October Project 2,” students are learning “meaningful life skills, including organization and planning,” while completely engaged in class content. Another major criterion is fun, Whitt said.

The young cinematographers created films “that celebrate the darker side of life” (with limitations), Whitt said. All films must have ‘PG’ ratings. “That doesn’t stop them from creating truly horrifying experiences.”

Films will range from psychological thrillers and ghost stories to documentaries about fear. One film might involve a “home haunted by a young woman’s spirit, while another film may transport you into innocent hide-and-seek in the woods,” Whitt said.

“One guarantee: you may have a hard time sleeping,” he said.

James Clemens teachers Clint Merritt, Amy Patel and Sherri Shamwell are helping with the production.

Tickets are $5 and available from Jets Press members, in James Clemens Commons or at the event. The public is welcome. Almost all 750 seats sold out in 2013.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. The audience can peruse “Fashion Show of the Dead” and enjoy Zen Club’s “Haunted Treats.” Showtime is 7 p.m.

The audience “must enter through a haunted vestibule into the auditorium,” Whitt said.