By Olivia Skofteland ‘14

Typically when people think of prom, they visualize all their classmates packed into the ballroom of an elegant hotel. For prom 2014, however, this will not be the case, because this year prom will be held at an unconventional venue: the Baltimore aquarium. It will be from 8 p.m.-12 a.m. on April 26, and will cost $95 per person.

“One of the officers suggested [the aquarium] last year, and when we found out it was possible, we sent out a survey to the Class of 2014 asking about possible locations,” said Senior Class Treasurer Natalie Sebeck. “The aquarium was the choice of an overwhelming majority.”

Sherwood rented out the P4 Pavilion called Touring Blue Wonders which has an eatery area and some animal exhibits, including the dolphin arena. Students must stay in this area for the duration of prom, and are not permitted to wander around anywhere else in or out of the aquarium. Other visitors will be walking around the Pavilion from 7-8 p.m., but after that the aquarium will be closed to the general public and the DJ will be on starting at 8 p.m.

Dinner will be provided at the aquarium. Hors d’ oeuvres will be served at 8p.m, and dinner will be served from 9 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. The food offered will be chicken and pasta with vegetables and two sauces, salad, bread and lemonade.  Dessert is a chocolate fountain with cookies and fresh fruit, and will be served from 9 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.

Buses are provided to transport students to and from prom. Students do not have to take the bus, but it is strongly advised.

“[Prom this year] will be a new and different experience which will definitely be remembered forever,” said Jodi Friedman, Junior Class sponsor, who planned prom for this year. “Who else has had a prom at the National Aquarium?”