On the eleventh of December, New Hope Academy prepared for a journey to the Big Apple. The day began with anticipation and excitement; as a flock of students boarded buses, not even Home Alone playing on the television could distract them from the exhilaration. The weather was dark and gloomy when they arrived in Manhattan. Umbrellas and hoodies flooded the busy streets, but luckily there was barely any walking in the rain before they entered Dave & Busters.
Lunch ensued—students and teachers scarfed down chicken tenders, composed salads and fries. Soon, the group invaded the arcade where dozens of games waited for them. Credits were given to each student and teacher as to ensure the most fun possible. There were clear favorites among each machine: Hungry Hungry Hippo, basketball, bowling, race car games, but none of them were as popular as the rubber duck claw machine.
After two hours, it was time to leave for the Richard Rodgers Theatre. NHA traversed through the drenched streets of NYC, many students hiding their prizes in bags and under coats to avoid them getting wet. Thankfully, the theatre wasn’t too far and they quickly sat in their seats, ready to witness the Hamilton production in all its glory. The crowd was enamored by the dancing, singing, and acting. The historical musical was an evident hit amongst everyone who viewed it. After the show ended, the students were surprised when they got to speak to the wonderful cast, their words and talent inspiring many.
Once they left the theatre, teachers and students dispersed into separate groups, off to explore the city. Many went to Rockefeller Center, which was far less crowded than the other years due to the rain. Underneath Rockefeller Center was a variety of stores and restaurants where most went to dine. Those who didn’t go to see the famous Christmas tree traversed the streets of Manhattan; some went to find a nice place to eat, others went shopping or visited activities. One particular group went to a Korean restaurant and ordered a mild spicy soup that was anything but mild. Atlas Barbanel (‘25) said of the experience, “Dave [Howell] was drenched in sweat, I was bright red, Atlas [Scarlata] looked fine but wasn’t fine. We were all dying but it was so good.”
Six o’clock soon struck, forcing the groups to quickly make their way towards the buses. As the bus slowly left NYC, the students stared outside of the window, admiring the beautiful city lights at night. They were exhausted, but relieved with the day they had just lived. The evening came to a close after an hour and a half of driving. Awaiting parents watched eagerly as students and teachers exited the bus, ready to relax after the draining but wonderful day.
