Haunted Tales
Step into the Spotlight... If you dare!
The Murray Theater first opened its doors in 1938, and it's seen some haunting acts over the years. After silver screen screams to ghostly echoes in the attic, this historic stage is opeing again in 2025 and is ready for its next story: yours!
Murray students K-12 are invited to chronicle their creepy creativity in this year's writing contest. Frightening films, mysterious music, creepy curtains - whatever you conjure, we're dying to read it! Winners will take home ghoulishly good prizes. So sharpen your pencils and get ready for the spotlight. Because the theater is open... and we're waiting for you!
Question? Conjure help from Rowan Coates at (801) 264-2589 or rcoates@murray.utah.gov
Reel Ghost Stories
Entries due: October 10, 2025
How to Enter:
- Write a spooky theater/movie-themed poem, short story (under 500 words), long story (500-2000 words max), or picture book (illustrated story under 500 words
- Complete your entry form online or print the entry PDF Form
- Submit entries before the stroke of midnight, October 10, 2025. Students may choose to:
- attach entry to online form (Word, Google doc, or PDF
- Email entry to rcoates@murray.utah.gov
- Deliver a printed copy to the Murray Museum (4872 Poplar Street), The museum office is open M/W 9:00-5:00, T/Th/F 9:00-1:00
Entries will be judged on creativity and grade-level writing skills. Gift card prizes awarded!
Writers Showcase: October 30, 2025
6:00PM at the Murray Museum (4872 S. Poplar Street)
Participants and families are invited to the showcase and awards. Costumes encouraged!
--
TIPS & VIDEOS
Having trouble coming up with a story plot or poem? Check out these "Story Starts" to help get the creative juices flowing!
Use this contest rubric to conjure the secrets of what our judges are looking for!
Looking to spice up your vocabulary or bring your words to life? Check out "Waking Your Words from the Dead" to help give you ideas on how to make your story or poem more lively!
Check out our YouTube Channel to watch Spooky Tidbits with Haley and listen to previous Haunted Tales Winners!