For the past couple of months, girls at NC have scoured the metro-Atlanta area seeking the perfect dress for one of the most important events of their high school career: prom. For students who did not receive the chance to attend the event their junior year due to COVID-19, this year’s prom made up for the misfortune. Located at Zoo Atlanta, the night contained laughter and mindless dancing, ending only when staff forced students to leave the venue.

The unique setting made this year especially noteworthy. After a long drive through the chaotic Atlanta traffic, students found themselves in awe as they sauntered towards the entrance. NC staff greeted students with wide smiles as they stepped in from the chilly weather, leading them up the stairs and into the ballroom. Upon entering, the flashing lights and loud music urged students to join the dance floor. The DJ looked down on the crowd from the second floor, scanning the sea of dancers to see what music they liked best. Popular hip-pop songs blared from the speakers, students jumping up and down to the beat and stepping on unsuspecting toes. 

Covered in glitter and lace, numerous students wore masks to fit the prom’s masquerade theme. The dark lighting and hidden faces gave the room a mysterious vibe, luckily students could slip out onto the two balconies when the room became too stuffy. Although the night sky made it hard to see anything outside, a couple of students claim to have seen elephants at the beginning of the night. 

“I wasn’t sure if I wanted to go to prom at first, but I’m so glad I did. I had so much fun getting dressed up all pretty and dancing with friends. I will remember this night forever,” senior Ansley Jones said. 

Just a couple of hours into the night, the DJ urged all prom court nominees to make their way to the stage. The appointed juniors and seniors pushed their way through the crowd to the stage, where they waited on comfy seats. Fifteen minutes later, the students paused in anticipation to hear the chosen king and queen name’s announced. The crowd cheered as Sabina Sahovic received the crown for Prom Queen and Alex Acosta accepted the title of Prom King. 

Heels lined the walls as the night came closer to an end, with tired and aching feet wanting to continue the fun. Numerous tables rested around the dance floor, where students stood and talked to friends while sipping drinks such as water and lemonade. After dancing for hours, the guests filled their stomachs with appetizing food. A line formed in front of the quesadilla and mac n’ cheese bar, and students adored the ice cream sandwiches. 

The dance owes its success to Tara Sisino and other NC staff members, who spent hours planning the event. Sisino chose all the decorations and gathered input from students for the food and theme. Her hard work allowed the attendees to make memories that will last a lifetime. 

“My favorite part of prom was getting to see all the students dress up and have fun. I think the dance was a success, [especially] after 2 years of not having prom, it was so exciting to see it all come together and I think it looked beautiful,” Sisino said.