The HARK Journal recognizes student talent from elementary-to-university level.
Enjoy the student contributions below.
Elementary Division
When I was five years old, I danced in a recital at the Municipal Auditorium. I heard the place was haunted and that ghosts may be lurking.
I wondered who the ghosts would be that wandered the halls. The building has a very exciting history so it could have been anyone - from a soldier to a famous musician.
The building is very old and very beautiful. It was designed by Samuel G. Weiner and Seymour Van Os and built between 1926 and 1929. Dedicated to the soldiers of World War I, the building served as military barracks to many American troops.
In 1948, “The Louisiana Hayride” program started. It featured many famous acts and brought recognition to Shreveport. Musicians like Elvis Presley, Aretha Franklin, Johnny Cash, and B.B. King performed at the Municipal. Their performances were broadcast nationally. The program ended in the 1960’s.
The Municipal Auditorium still features concerts and other events, like my dance recital, for the Shreveport community. I wonder if anyone has ever heard or seen the spirits of the famous musicians that have performed there!
Sources
https://www.louisianatravel.com/articles/louisiana-hayride-show-most-successful-stage-music-history
https://www.shreveportmunicipalauditorium.com/about/history/