As the school year winds down, excitement is building for Oak Park and River Forest High School’s upcoming prom, set to take place at the Hyatt Regency in Chicago on May 18. The doors will open at 6:30 p.m. and will close promptly at 7:45 p.m., and the event will end at 11 p.m.
With the theme “A Night On Cloud 9” selected by the Student Prom Committee, anticipation is high for a night of dancing, dining and creating lasting memories. Neal Weisman, an OPRF math teacher and prom committee sponsor, has been diligently working alongside students and Student Activities Coordinator Angela Hawkins to ensure a memorable evening.
The Hyatt’s ballroom, newly renovated in time for this year’s event, promises a stunning backdrop for the night. Additionally, a jazz quartet, making its return after many years, will serenade students upon arrival, according to Hawkins.
Student involvement in planning prom is extremely important, according to senior Moruri Ondande, a member of the committee. From selecting the theme, organizing decorations and tasting food, the Student Prom Committee has been integral to the planning.
For those attending, Weisman offers some advice: arrive early to avoid valet lines, ensure tickets are available on the 5Star app and have IDs ready for non-OPRF guests. Upon entering, students can expect warm smiles, the melodies of the jazz band and an ice sculpture.
Ondande said, “Honestly, I’m most excited for the people. I’ve met so many wonderful people and made so many beautiful memories…it’s a last huzzah.”
OPRF has been able to host prom at the Hyatt because students have shown respect for the space, the staff and their peers for many years in the past, and it is very important that this trend is not broken this year, according to Hawkins.
“We are allowed to go downtown to a hotel for prom because the students have proved that they can be responsible and handle being in a hotel setting,” she said. With preparations in full swing and anticipation building, Cloud 9 promises to be a prom to remember for Oak Park and River Forest High School’s class of 2024.
