Set of characters halloween vampire, frankenstein, pumpkin and skeleton vector illustration design (djvstock (123RF))
Every Halloween, the monsters creep out from the shadows... but this year, they’ve ditched the storybooks to enjoy a night full of frightful fun. And guess what? You’re officially summoned to The Grand Ghoul Gala, hosted by none other than the legendary monster hunter himself - Van Helsing! But don’t worry, he’s retired his stake and put away the garlic to take up event planning. As it turns out, he has killer taste in party themes.
So, what is this ghoulish gathering, you ask? It’s a family-friendly event featuring spine-tingling performances by talented young ghosts and ghouls from local groups like KMC Onstage, Ballet Dimensions, and Razz Ma Tazz Theater. You will recognize the characters, songs, and stories from Halloween pop culture. Think dinner theater... but with more cobwebs.
Here’s what your ticket unlocks: A devilishly delicious dinner (don’t worry, picky little monsters are welcome, too - vegetarian and meat options are available), a costume contest for grown-ups (PG-rated costumes only), a silent auction full of frightfully fabulous finds, a cash bar brewing up magical potions (some may contain actual spirits), a photo booth to immortalize your ghoulish glow, candy treats for your little beasties and more!
This first-of-its-kind haunt is the wickedly wonderful brainchild of Shannon Uhle, Education and Events Director for the Kaiserslautern Military Community (KMC) Theater Guild. “I wanted the kids to have a one-of-a-kind performance experience,” Uhle says. “I was inspired by Hotel Transylvania! I love that movie!”
The terrifyingly talented directors of The Grand Ghoul Gala are Nina Bergsdottir, Julie Phillips, Ann Pinson and Sierra Whitley. This will be Whitley’s directing debut. “I’m most excited about seeing the kids get out of their shells, and the characterization,” says Whitley.
“I love Halloween, and volunteering with kids! I’m happy to give an opportunity to the kids to perform.”
— Sierra Whitley
The KMC Theater Guild is an all-volunteer organization whose purpose is to foster, promote, support, and encourage participation in performing arts within the KMC. Every ticket purchased helps support this cause and ensures more magical moments on stage for our young performers. Please visit the event on KMC Theater Guild’s Facebook page for more information and a link to purchase tickets at facebook.com/KMCTheaterGuild.
The Grand Ghoul Gala takes place Oct. 30, 2025 at the Ramstein Officer’s Club.
Please note, while the event is family-friendly, parents with children under the age of 3 should be aware that there may be loud sounds, flashing lights and spooky effects.
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Grand Ghoul Gala Flyer with QR code for tickets (KMC Theater Guild)
Editor’s Note: This article was written by a member of the local military community, not an employee of Stars and Stripes. Neither the organization nor the content is being represented by Stars and Stripes or the Department of Defense.
