BY EMILY LUNDBERG
Orange — On Saturday, March 8, 28 students were injured when Servite High School’s stage collapsed during a performance by Rosary High School, an all-girl catholic school.
The collapse occurred at approximately 10 p.m. during the finale of Rosary’s 44th Annual Red and Gold Rally performance. According to the Rosary website, Red and Gold is “one of Rosary’s most cherished traditions.” In preparation for the rally, the entire student body is divided into several categories including choral, dance, media, props, and stage techs. These groups then spend six weeks using creativity, analytical thinking, and leadership to put on the event.
Servite, an all-boy catholic high school, was founded in 1958 and served as the venue for this year’s Red and Gold performance. According to the Servite’s website, the stage is 50’ wide and 25’ deep. A statement released by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Orange on March 10 stated that an internal investigation is currently underway to determine the cause of the collapse.
At the time of the collapse, 250 students were jumping and screaming on stage during the finale. Without what appeared to be any signs or warning, the front part of the stage collapsed. This was the last of four performances scheduled that weekend.
According to a spokesperson from the Catholic Diocese of Orange, 28 students were treated for mild to moderate injuries at local hospitals, and all have been released.
On March 9, Rosary and Servite High Schools released a brief joint statement saying that the event had occurred and that their “thoughts and prayers are with the students and their families.” Both schools have since declined phone calls from reporters requesting comments on the event.
