REVIEW: sanctum

October 16, 2025

REVIEW: sanctum

Over half a decade ago we randomly stumbled across the Alhambra High School Thespians (AHST) haunted house. It was a random find on an early October evening and we weren’t sure what to expect - but once inside the maze we were instantly hooked. These teen thespians weren’t only great at prop-building, make-up, styling, lighting, and storytelling - they also excelled at being hyper, energetic scare actors. The world that they created inside of their school's theater left a memorable impression that has made this a must-visit every season.

A great hook to this haunt is that they change their theme every single year. This season’s maze - entitled SANCTUM - was only open for one night last weekend. It took us on a voyage through a dark, post-apocalyptic underworld where a demonic queen has jailed those who have crossed her path. She sits on her throne with a mutated human chained like a dog protecting her from unwanted intruders. Giant spiders, mechanical torture arms and dead bodies litter the pathway where you encounter gothic, masked characters who jump out from the shadows towards you. This entire experience was extremely intense and well-executed.

The AHST are extremely talented at what they do - a testament to how lucky they are to have teachers and a school who allow them to explore their creative ideas in such a grand way. Every year we leave in awe at the universe that they have created and always want more. It is a shame that they are only open for one day per season, so please remember to visit them next year as we have no doubt that their 2026 haunt will be incredible.

VC

October 16, 2025

#alhambrahighschool #hauntedhouse #hauntedmaze #sanctum #halloween #hauntsofla