The class of 2025 is bringing style and community spirit to the stage Friday, March 14th for “Runway 01938,” a highly anticipated Ipswich High School tradition. Hoping to make a senior week and prom more affordable and fun, seniors will strut the runway wearing clothes chosen for them from various local businesses.
Here’s everything the class of 2025 needs to know before the big night.
COMMUNITY SPIRIT
Unlike past years at the Hellenic Center, the event is set to take place at Ipswich Country Club. Class advisor Lisa Ellrott explains that “six years ago this event was at the county club, but as the venue grew expensive, the event became less profitable. This year, with the new event planner [at the Ipswich Country Club] it became a possibility again.” This venue accommodates an elevated runway and is very conducive for this type of show.
Providing more insight into which business will be modeled during the show, Lisa Ellrott recalls that “Giblees, The Ultimate, Betsy Frost, Revival Fashion Consignment, Consignment Bridal and Prom, Bent Emporium, Francies Boutique, and Nalu Surfhouse” will all be modeled this year, however, there are still many other businesses they are waiting to hear back from.
THE SPECIFICS: MODELS
Prior to the show, models will be asked to sell tickets, get fitted, and be prepared to strut the runway.
Each model will be assigned to a store where they will be brought in to be fitted. Students are assigned with a group of classmates and a parent volunteer, however, students will not be able to request a particular store.
Additionally, each model will be required to attend the mandatory dress rehearsal on Monday, March 10th at 6:00 pm. It is most important that “models wear soft soled-shoes, almost rubber,” Lisa Ellrott explains, “So that they don’t damage the floor.” The rehearsal will cover all the basics from their arrival to posing at the end of the runway.
Left to right: Abbie Wallace-Tastad, Estelle Gromko, Drew Lane, Sarah Eliot. Ava Croce and Téa Princi photo credit.
TICKETS AND SILENT AUCTION
Prior to the show, models are required to sell at least two tickets. This year, unlike past IHS fashion shows, tickets will be offered for a new “paparazzi” standing section. For this section tickets will be sold for only $10, offering an inexpensive way for students to get involved in the show.
General admission seats are priced at $40 each, while a front row seat (VIP) is $65 per ticket.
Students are also encouraged to donate services such as babysitting, snow shoveling, leaf removal, or baked goods to be bidded on at the silent auction. These services can significantly help the class of 2025 reach their fundraising goals as Lisa Ellrot explains, “It’s really the auction that makes the money that helps offset the cost for prom and senior week.”
Beyond being a night of style and excitement, “Runway 01938” serves a greater purpose as all proceeds will go towards the class of 2025 by helping to fund senior week activities, prom, and more. The more money that this event raises through ticket sales and the silent auction, the less seniors will have to pay out-of-pocket for tickets to senior events.
According to class secretary Jenny White, with the profits from the fashion show, class representatives are “hoping to be able to go on a boat cruise and rent out ‘In the Game’ from 10-1 am.” The more money that is raised from the fashion show means the more aspects that can be added to senior week, such as “food trucks, more performers, bouncy houses, and more,” says Lisa Ellrott.
DON’T MISS OUT
“Runway 01938,” promises to be a night of glamour, fun, and excitement that will help make the class of 2025’s senior year unforgettable. Be sure to grab your tickets while they’re available and consider participating in the silent auction.
The class of 2025 needs your help! For more information about the fashion show or to buy tickets check out the show’s website.
