I thought I would share my haunt layout for 2010, done inside and with limited space, but it seems to work out quite nicely.
This is my third year to present a "Haunt in Japan" (previous years just decorating outside of my apartment for the neighbor kids) and each year the new haunt gets better and better. 2008 was actually 'through' my apartment' (that was interesting), last year and this will be in the apartment complex lobby. I've managed to add some props and reach my goal this year to add/improve the sound/motion/lights to the haunt.
Props will be activated either by IR or mat switches (purchased or constructed) and some with motion by motors or pneumatics. Almost every prop will have LED eyes that will be on, fading, or blinking. All the walls are of course temporary since it all has to be dismantled and stored the day after the haunt, ugh.
I've learned a lot from this forum, got some great ideas along the way and I want to share some of what all that has accomplished. I will begin posting pictures of the props and the haunt night.
I'm sure what I've learned from all of you on the forum will be enjoyed by the many neighbors/friends/co-workers that plan to visit the haunt. Last year we had about 200 visitors the one night I was allowed to set this up. I've heard there will be many more this year. Wish me luck !
I even plan a small area (outside the main 'scare' area) just for the tiny tots, full of fun non-scary Halloween decorations, small props, and of course treats!
I hope you enjoy the layout planned for this year and that maybe it will give some ideas to those of us with space limitations. Any comments/suggestions appreciated.
How is Halloween in Japan? Do they even do anything? Is it catching on? I figure with the success of asian horror like Ringu and Ju-On that there would be a lot of potential Halloween fans out there.
We are hosting an international student from Turkey, and I was trying to explain Halloween to him yesterday when we passed by some decorations at a grocery store. It's strange the things we just take for granted...
I'd miss Halloween if I moved to another country, so I applaud your efforts to help spread it to Japan gpawood!
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